Rev. Russell G. Downs, 80, of Mount Vernon finished his race on Monday morning, April 16, 2018 at home with his daughters by his side.
He was born on Sept. 1, 1937 in Kalamazoo, Michigan to the late Gilbert and Edna (Reedy) Downs. He grew up in Johnsville, Ohio where he was a graduate of Johnsville High School, class of 1955.
Russell graduated from Olivet Nazarene University in 1961 with a degree in Theology. He was involved with many offices in the Church of the Nazarene.
He pastored in the Church of the Nazarene for over 41 years in Illinois, Ohio and West Virginia. Most recently, before he retired in 2011, he was visitation Pastor at Mount Vernon First Church of the Nazarene. His greatest joy was to tell others about Jesus. He had a gift for encouragement. Visiting others and sharing the love of Jesus was his passion and his calling.
He counted it a privilege to be a pastor, husband, father and grandfather. His grandchildren lovingly called him “Pa”. He was a blessing and encouragement to his family and everyone who knew him.
Russell is survived by his loving wife, Donna R. (Hester) Downs, whom he married on Aug. 21, 1959; his daughters, Nita (Dana) Riffle, Jan (Steve) Gocking; his grandchildren, Danae Riffle, Darcie Riffle, Dalayna Riffle, Dylan Riffle and Nathan Gocking; his brother Fred (Carol) Downs; his brother-in-law Jerry Whittington; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Russell was preceded in death by his brother Marvin (Marrbell) Downs; and his sisters, Mildred (Dan) Mitchell and Rosalie Whittington.
The family will have a private burial in River Cliff Cemetery, Mount Gilead. A memorial service, celebrating the life of Russell, will be held at a date to be announced at the First Church of the Nazarene in Mount Vernon.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Mount Vernon First Church of the Nazarene Ministries.
To share a memory or send the family an expression of sympathy, visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
The Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Rev. Russell G. Downs.
Knox Public Health proudly sponsors the Obituary section on Knox Pages, ensuring families have easy access to death certificates during their time of need.
