William Downey III

Born on June 27, 1933, in Brunswick, Ga., he was the only child of Willam Downey Jr. and Venice Coker Downey.

Bill graduated from Knoxville High School, Knoxville, Tenn., and the University of Tennessee, where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Upon graduation from UT he joined the United States Army. Returning from the Army, Bill settled in the Golden Isles, where he met his wife of 58 years, Beth Newton of Millen, Ga.

In 1966, Bill founded Golden Isles Realty Company, located on St.Simons Island, which continues to operate with his two sons, Clarke and Al. Service to his community was an integral part of Bill's character. He served as president of Golden Isles Board of Realtors, chairman of St. Simons Island Chamber of Commerce, chairman of the Airport Commission, chairman of the Board of Frederica Academy, Board of Directors of SunTrust Bank, and Board of Directors of Southeastern Bank. He was a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, where he served as Senior Warden. In addition, he was a member of the Sea Island Club and Brunswick Country Club.

As an avid outdoorsman, he instilled in his children and grandchildren his love and respect for nature. He was a gentleman in every sense of the word, a great storyteller and an advice giver, whether solicited or not.

In addition to his wife, he is "DAD" to Clarke (Stephanie), Anna (Freddy Stroud) and Al (Anna) and "GRANDDADDY" to Frederick, Elliott, Bennett, Carson, West, Molly and Lucy. He is also survived by brother-in-law, John Cleve Newton (Billie); and sister-in-law, Sylvia Summers (Dr. Roland); as well as several nieces and nephews.

Serving as pallbearers are his grandsons, who, in Bill Downey fashion, will be in khakis and blue blazers. Honorary pallbearers are Jimmy Moore, Tom Whelchel, Woody Woodside, Bill Jones III, Marvin Pipkin, Con Holland, Jack Hartman, Steve Jackson and Ferman Ricks.

The family expresses their gratitude to Doctors Strickland, Chitty and Callender and the nursing staff who provided special attention and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Post Office Drawer 929, Darien, GA 31305 or The Village Pier Association, 319 Mallory St., St. Simons Island, GA 31522.

A graveside service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, March 4 at St. Andrews Cemetery, Darien, Ga.

Masks and social distancing are requested.