Norman Lane Downing

Norman Lane Downing, 77, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, in Fort Worth, TX, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on September 15, 1947, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Delwin and Berna Deane Downing.

Norman married Lynda Cole on June 6, 1970, in Akron, Ohio, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. He is survived by Lynda; son Norman L. Downing, Jr. (Lana); daughter Denise Downing McPherson (J.D.); grandson Raylan Cole Downing; sister, Nancy Fitzgerald; and nephew, Gill Oliver, as well as many close family and friends in Texas, Missouri, and Ohio.

He graduated from William Jewell College in Liberty, MO, with a degree in economics. Some of his fondest memories were of practicing with the Kansas City Chiefs when the team used William Jewell’s football stadium. He also holds the North Kansas City High School record in the 200 meters, a mark that has stood since 1965.

Norman was a proud National Guard veteran, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and the epitome of a sharp-dressed man. He was a true gentleman who took pride in always being smartly dressed with monogrammed, starched shirts, snappy jackets, and a sparkle in his eyes. A music man at heart, he played the hand bells, violin, and organ. He spoke fluent baseball and never missed a chance to share the game with others. He will be remembered for his generosity, his love of helping others, and his long career as an insurance agent. He also gave his time and talents to the Alzheimer’s Association and the Southlake Chamber of Commerce.

A memorial service to honor Norman’s life will be held on Wednesday, September 10, at 10 a.m. at Christ Chapel Bible Church, 3701 Birchman Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76107. Interment will be in Green City, Missouri.

A reception will follow the service, where family and friends are invited to share memories and celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, donations in Norman’s memory are requested to Community Healthcare of Texas or the Alzheimer’s Association.