Mr. Ernest Edward Downs, age 87 of Flowery Branch, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025 at his home, surrounded by family.
Funeral mass will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church with Father Pete Coppola officiating. The family will receive friends from 9:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Memorial Park South Funeral Home. Inurnment will be held at 3 P.M. Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Memorial Park South Cemetery.
Mr. Downs was born May 14, 1938 to the late Wilbur Downs & Laverne Block Downs in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a veteran of the United States Coast Guard. For more than 40 years, Ernie worked with Glidden Paint, where he was known for his strong work ethic, deep knowledge of his craft, and the pride he took in a job well done. His decades of service touched countless coworkers, earning him respect throughout the community. He was a member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church.
A man of simple joys and a sharp mind, he rarely missed an episode of Jeopardy! He also had a fondness for puzzles of all kinds, finding quiet satisfaction in solving even the most challenging ones.
At home, Ernie could most often be found tinkering in his workshop, repairing, building, or simply exploring how things worked. His workshop was his haven, a place where he transformed everyday materials into something useful or meaningful. He also loved gathering around a table with family and friends for a good game of cards, where laughter, storytelling, and friendly competition always followed.
Above all, Ernie cherished his family. He was a role model for his children, a loyal husband of 63 years, and a steady source of encouragement. His legacy will live on in the values he passed down, the memories he created, and the love he shared so generously.
He is survived by his wife, Sheila Downs; sons, William Downs (Susan), Thomas Downs (Vicki), & Robert Downs (Melissa); daughters, Maureen Adams (Ryan) & Mary Ellen Kenemer (David); 13 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and sister, JoAnn Downs.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lois Hauck; and brother, Thomas Downs.
Memorial Park South Funeral Home, 4121 Falcon Pkwy Flowery Branch, GA 30542 is in charge of arrangements. Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.
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