Obituary of Louie B Downing

Louie B Downing Louie B (Buddy) Downing, 90, of Auburn, MO passed away Dec. 22, 2011. He was born Dec. 10, 1921 in Lincoln County, MO, the eldest son of Louie Bird and Angie (Elliott) Downing. Mr. Downing attended the Auburn one-room school through the eighth grade, then graduated from Troy High School and attended the University of Missouri, Columbia. After the death of his father, at age of fourteen he assumed the responsibility of the family farm. On August 14, 1943 he married Doris Eileen Hobbs. They resided on the family homestead which he continued to farm and where they raised their nine children. He and his wife were very active in all aspects of their community. Louie joined the Auburn Presbyterian Church where he served in many capacities: Elder, Deacon, Song Leader and Sunday School Teacher. Louie represented his local church at Presbytery. He was twice awarded the Evelyn R. Bedell Award for his Christian service. He and his wife provided spiritual and musical uplift in local nursing homes. They were active with the American Bible Society and delivered Meals on Wheels for many years. They were also strong supporters of 4-H, the Gideons, the Presbyterian Children's Home, Salvation Army and many other charitable organizations. Louie was a self-taught musician, gifted with a great voice and was often called upon to provide music for special occasions. He enjoyed jamming with local musicians and could always be heard whistling, humming or singing. All who knew Buddy were touched by his sense of humor, quick wit, friendly hospitality and the mischievous twinkle in his eye. His other hobbies included roller skating (well into his 60s), shooting pool, playing a wicked game of checkers, cards and board games. He was preceded in death by his parents Louie & Angie Downing, Doris, his beloved wife of 65 years, one brother Jim (J.D.) Downing, a brother-in-law, Hugh Fowler, a son-in-law, Charles Ledgerwood, and daughter-in-law, Janelle Downing. He is survived by his sister Rita Fowler of Indianapolis, IN, his six daughters: Virginia Warchol of Casa Grande, AZ, Rebecca Ledgerwood of Sedalia, MO, Rita Shero (Alan) of Athens, AL, Nancy Fansher (Jim) of Trimble, MO, Judy Collins (Bob) of Elsberry, MO, Jean Gomez (Johnny) of Casa Grande, AZ, and three sons: Brent Downing (Delia) of Washingtonville, NY, David Downing, Columbia, MO, Dan Downing (Cindy) of Hartsburg, MO. He also leaves nine grandchildren, three great grandsons, many relatives, friends, and his devoted care givers. Memorials may be made to the Janelle Downing 4-H Foundation Scholarship, Charles A. Ledgerwood Scholarship Fund in care of Sedalia School foundation, or All You Need is Love Food Pantry C/O Auburn Presbyterian Church. Services are being handled by Carter Ricks Funeral Homes, 107 S. 5th Street; Elsberry, MO 63343. Online donations or condolences may be made at www.carterricksfuneralhome.com.