Jack entered life on this earth on Aug. 29, 1940, in New Orleans, Louisiana. And departed this life into eternity with the Lord on May 20, 2023. A funeral service was held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 11 a.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika. A private burial was held after the service.
Jack is preceded by his parents, John M. Downes Sr. and Evelyn Blumenthal Downes; his siblings Gaynell Downes, Barbara Downes Vaugn, Dan Downes and his half-sister, Muriel Ann Smith.
He is survived by his wife, Julie Williams Downes; his sons Greg Downes (Kimberly), Jeff Downes (Penny) and Scott Downes (Dawn); his stepdaughter Jessica Lawson Mure’ (Joey) and stepson Lee Lawson (Regan); and his 17 beloved grandchildren: Lauren, Corey, Chad, Sydney, Harrison, Alex, Brendan and Beckett Downes; Annie, Lily Kate, Chapel, Adler and Tyndall Mure’; Knox, Greer, Libby and Ann Garrett Lawson.
Jack served in the United States Marine Corps and Reserves as 1st sergeant. He received his Juris Doctor from Jones School of Law. Jack retired from 36 years at the VA Regional Office of Montgomery, Alabama, as Claims Service Center manager. After retirement and relocating to Auburn in 2003, Jack enjoyed many volunteer opportunities at Habitat for Humanity, Calloway Gardens, AUMC Food Pantry, ARM, Jubilee Ministry and Harvesters, and as a bailiff at the Lee County Justice Center.
The family would also like to give a special thank you to Compassus Hospice for the wonderful care they gave Jack and the family during his last two months.
Donations may be made to the AUMC Food Pantry, AUMC Reach Ministry, Habitat for Humanity or to the charity of your choice.