James Albert Downey Sr.

Born in Lynchburg, Virginia, July 3, 1941, he was the sole child of the late May Brooks Downey Garrett and James Edward Downey. He was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Andrew Wilson Garrett, and stepbrother, Raymond L. Garrett. James is survived by his beloved wife of over 54 years, Judith Hackett Downey and one stepbrother, Andrew Wilson Garrett, Jr. and wife Connie of Goode, Virginia.

He will forever be remembered by his beloved children Tammy Downey Betterton of Madison Heights, Sandra Downey Dasburg of Charleston, South Carolina, Carol Downey Dawson and husband Brad Dawson of Madison Heights and James Albert Downey Jr. and wife Tamara Ward Downey of Lynchburg. He treasured his grandchildren, Melissa Dasburg Rollins, Michael Dasburg, Zachary Betterton, Christopher Betterton, Tyler Dawson, Mitchell Dawson, Abigail Downey and Jackson Downey. He was also honoured to have countless other family members and friends all of whom were blessed by his smile, compassion and generosity. He was the founder of J & J Automotive, in Madison Heights, where he proudly served the community for over 35 years. In the last years of his life, he retired and was blessed to share additional time with his family and friends.

James’ family will receive family and friends from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday the 9th day of September, 2014 at Whitten Monelison Chapel.

A celebration of James’ life will be held at Whitten Monelison Chapel at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, the 10th day of September, 2014 with the Rev. Steve D. Tyree officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park.

James’ family members wish to express their sincere and heartfelt gratitude to Doctor Joseph B. Khoury and staff at Lynchburg Pulmonary Associates, Inc., Miss Jill Crawford, RN at Centra Hospice, and Virginia Baptist Pharmacy for their care and compassion.

It was James’ request that any memorial contributions be made to the Madison Heights Dixie Youth Baseball Association at Post Office Box 99, Madison Heights, Virginia 24572.