Douggie Drew Downing
Douggie Drew Downing, known affectionately as Doug to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2024, in Lexington, KY, at the age of 79. Born on July 23, 1944, in Paris, KY, Doug was a man whose warm smile and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
A true family man, Doug’s greatest joy was his large and loving family. He is survived by his five children: Drew Downing and his wife Cheryl, Fran Howard and her husband Timmy, Samuel King, Paul King, and Naomi Norris and her husband Johnny. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Caleb Downing and his wife Michelle, Whitney Napier and her husband Travis, Lance Taylor and his wife Ashley, Thomas Howard, Austin Norris and his wife Sierra, Ezra Norris, Cody King and his wife Laney, and Shyanne King.
His legacy continues with fourteen great-grandchildren: Casen, Addilee, Kaelyn, Rhett, Charlotte Downing, Brantley, Oaklynn Howard, Braxton, Natalie Taylor, Landon Alfrey, Malachi, Samuel J., Shepherd King, and Mattie Crawford.
Doug was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Charlotte Ann Hatton Downing, his cherished daughter Neely Taylor, his brother Jackie Downing, and his sisters Mareese Smits and Nellie Jones.
After graduating from Paris High School, Doug went on to establish Downing Appliance Repair, a business that he owned and operated for 50 years. His work ethic and dedication to service were cornerstones of his career, earning him the respect and friendship of the community.
Outside of work, Doug’s interests were varied and rich. He was an avid fan of the University of Kentucky Basketball, a passion that he shared with his family and friends. His love of the water was evident in his enjoyment of boating, an activity that brought him much peace and happiness. Doug’s best friend, Stanley Carl, was a constant in his life, and the two shared many memorable trips to Florida together.
Doug’s character was defined by his loving nature, his kindness, and his generosity. He was the kind of person who never missed an opportunity to help those in need or to offer a kind word. His smile was infectious, and his presence could light up a room.
He will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by his family, including numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, and by all who knew him. Doug Downing’s life was a testament to the power of love, family, and friendship. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched, and the world is undeniably brighter for his having been in it.
Doug Downing’s life will be celebrated in a manner befitting the joy he brought to others. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. Rest in peace, Doug. Your memory will forever be cherished.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM Friday April 19, 2024, by Pastor Bill Bales, Pastor Josh Ancello and Pastor Jonathan Graves at the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY. Burial will follow in the Paris Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 5-8 PM Thursday April 18, 2024, at the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY.
Pallbearers will be Thomas Howard, Austin Norris, Ezra Norris, Cody King, Caleb Downing, Lance Taylor, Eugene Riddle, Stanley Carl, Landon Alfrey and Johnny Norris.
Honorary pallbearers will be Bobby and Beulah True and June Colley.
Memorials may take the form of contributions to the Central Baptist Church Willing Hand Quilters, 829 High St., Paris, KY 40361.
The funeral arrangements were entrusted to Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home, 1120 Main Street., Paris, KY 40361. The online guestbook is at www.Lusk-McFarland.com and a 24 hour funeral information line can be reached by calling 859-987-4387.
