George Charles Downey

George Charles Downey, age 83, resident of Columbus, died on Saturday, February 27, 2010 at his residence. Graveside services will be held at Parkhill Cemetery on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, 11 a.m. with Rev. (Dr.) Tom Stephenson officiating, according to Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, March 1, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. SFC Downey served his country honorably in the U.S. Army for 21 years and retired in 1966 as a SFC. He joined the Army in April of 1946 and served several tours in Germany before marrying his wife, Marianne. For the next 20 years he worked in Civil Service at Fort Benning, GA. SFC Downey was a member of the American Legion, Post 35, supported both the Fraternal Order of Police and the Sheriff’s Department. He is known to his family and friends as a very devoted husband and father. SFC Downey is survived by his wife of 56 years, Marianne Downey; his son, George William Downey and his wife Scarlett Stanelle; granddaughter, Heather L. Downey; grandson, Cole J. Downey; step grandsons, Jason Stanelle, Brett Stanelle, and Steven Stanelle; great-granddaughter, Hailey Jordan; other relatives and friends. The family extends sincere appreciation to the staff of Columbus Hospice. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Columbus Hospice House at www.columbushospice.com. or the Salvation Army, 1718 2nd Ave, Columbus, GA 31901.