Michael Downs

Michael Delano Downs, 75, of Nixa, MO, formerly of Mountainburg, passed away Saturday, March 18, 2017 at his home. He was born September 29, 1941 in Fort Smith to the late Noah Allen and Florence Juanita (Ashworth) Downs. Michael attended Mountainburg High School and Arkansas Tech University. He also proudly served his country in the United States Army. His life’s work was as a Special Agent with the United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration; but for fun he loved fishing, hunting, grilling out, and watching his favorite team, the Arkansas Razorbacks play football. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, N.A. “Sonny” Downs.

Michael leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Betty (Payne) Downs; two daughters, Michelle Matlack and husband Keith of Annandale, VA, and Deborah Bland of Cabot; a son, Gregory Downs and wife Melinda of Alma; six grandchildren, Jacob, Charity, Noah, Madison, Miriam, and Annay.

Graveside service with Military Honors will be 3:00 p.m. Saturday, March 25, 2017 at Vaught Cemetery in Mountainburg, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.

The family will visit with friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 25, 2017, at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren, AR.