Charles Downham III

Charles Downham III, “ Chick”, passed away peacefully in Hospice Care on August 10, 2025. He is survived by his daughter, Diane Downham Gaudet (Robert) and granddaughter, Natalie Beth. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles Downham Jr and Doris Long of Philadelphia, PA, his wife, Sandra Downham and his daughter, Beth Ann Downham of Warrington, PA.

Charles was born in Philadelphia, PA and graduated Germantown Academy. He continued on to receive a Bachelor of Science of Education and Master of Education from Temple University. While growing up he played multiple sports; basketball, baseball and football with much success, eventually becoming the Quarterback for Temple University. Upon graduation, he worked as a PE teacher, Football and Basketball Referee, and Football Coach in the Abington School district, winning several championships. With his love for sports, and teaching, he and his wife of sixty years and high school sweetheart, Sandy, built and founded the state licensed Elbow Lane Nursery School and Day Camp in Warrington, PA which they operated for twenty years.

After relocating with Sandy to Jupiter/Tequesta, FL in 1986, Chick semi retired and continued to build a few businesses (John Prince Golf Center & Lady of America to name a few). Dad spent many years focusing on his tennis game until he wore out his knees, then switched to golf, where he found more success. At last count, he had four holes in one! He became a much loved and proud grandfather known as “ Grand Dad”. He enjoyed his friends, family, traveling to play golf, a new car, carpentry, fixing things, practicing and playing golf and sharing his knowledge with friends and family. He will be remembered as a supportive husband, good guy, influential boss, smart, disciplined, tough and loving father, fun, strong, and a friend to those who knew him.

A memorial Service to honor Chick will be held at Aycock Funeral Home in Jupiter on Friday, September 5 at 2 pm. There will be a celebration of life to follow at Turtle Creek Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to

American Heart Association (www.heart.org) or

Hospice of Palm Beach County (trustbridge.com)