John "Jack" Downey

John Francis "Jack" Downey, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, September 18, 2026 at the age of 87 (May,11 1939). Leaves behind his loving wife Janet (Gaines) Downey of 64 years, son John Downey, daughter Lida (Rick) Jackson, son Walter (Lisa) Downey, and daughter Jacinta (Jason) Bowen; 20 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren; sisters Mary Debitetto and Nancy Buoni; sisters-in-law Polly Elliott, Rose Branham, Nel Branham; brother-in-law Roy Joe (Vivian) Gaines; many nieces and nephews.

Jack lived his life through his Catholic faith which was the source of his strength and courage. He married Janet September 22, 1962 and started an amazing life with her.

Jack was a man with many passions. He could often be found playing the piano, writing music and filling the house with melodies.

In his early retirement ,he and Janet would travel to Laughlin for the winters and visit all the amazing friends they made on the west Coast.

He loved working in his garage, watching cowboy movies and getting involved with the highly coveted Euchre tournaments we would throw.

Jack possessed a wonderful sense of humor, delivering a joke with perfect timing. That lives on in all his grandkids.

He honorably served in the 101st Airborne Division, “Screaming Eagles”, United States Army. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.

Jack lived his life by the words of his patron saint, Francis of Assisi: "Preach the gospel always—and when necessary, use words".

Family will receive friends from 5pm-7pm on Monday, September 28, 2026 at the TIDD FUNERAL HOME, 5265 Norwich St., Hilliard, OH 43026. A Mass of Christian burial will be held 10:30am on Tuesday, September, 29, 2026 at St. Margaret of Cortona, 1600 N Hague Ave, Columbus, OH 43204. Interment Wesley Chapel Cemetery, Hilliard, OH.