William Morris Downey Jr.

William Morris Downey Jr., 91, of Louisville peacefully passed away at his home on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.Faithful member of Ralph Avenue Baptist Church (now Vision of Hope at Ralph Avenue) in “Lively Shively” for 8 decades, and serving 7 different pastors as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and on numerous committees. Loved gospel music and good country music and, despite being blessed with an extremely monotone singing voice, loved to “make a joyful noise” to the Lord. Always faithful in daily prayer and reading the Word of God.

He earned a B.A. in Business from the University of Louisville.

Bill provided for his family and was a dedicated employee of the Sinclair Oil Company, Marathon Oil Company, and the Ashland Oil Company for over 30 years. Owner/Operator of a NAPA franchise on Dixie Hwy (Also Shively). And finally retired for good at the age of 77 after 20 years of service with Avada/Miracle Ear/Beltone Hearing Centers. Spent retirement years traveling with Shirley on bus tours all around the region, numerous excursions to Gatlinburg, tailgating at UL Football games, and watching their grandkids and great grandkids playing ball. Insisted on still mowing his own lawn and shoveling his driveway until 89 , stubbornly exclaiming it was his “only exercise I get!” Remained very active and energetic in retirement, “getting out” on their daily drives around town and crushing their favorite buffets. Enjoyed driving to Owensboro, Bardstown, Glendale, and Smithfield just to eat and, more than a few times, just for dessert! Beat cancer…twice! Continued to “Ring the Bell” for Bro. William Vittitow and Vision of Hope at Ralph Ave right up until his final days here on earth.

William is survived by his wife of 71 years, Shirley Mae Alvey Downey, their children, Pam O'Keefe (Fred), Kathy Kannapel (Joe), Bill Downey (Bridgett) and Scott Downey (Jill). A sister, Delois Fonseca survives also, and his brother, John W. Downey precedes Bill in death. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Holly Purvis (Eric), Bethany Sketo (Mike), Lindsey Ludwig (Chad), Andrew Kannapel, Derek Coulter (Lydia), Dylan Downey, Erika Jordan (Adrean), Zach Downey and Taylor Downey. He is also survived by 12 Great grandchildren and many other extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 11AM - 2PM on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 with a funeral service starting at 2PM at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Rd. Louisville, KY 40218. Interment will take place at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.