John F. Downs, 87, of Abilene, Texas passed away on May 6, 2023. John was born on August 26, 1935, in Abilene, Texas to John and Kathryn Downs.
On June 29, 1963, John married Chrystene Carpenter. John had graduated from Hardin Simmons University and Chrystene from McMurry University.
John lived and worked in the insurance field for 39 years in Dallas, Texas. He was an active member of Lancaster Lions Club working with children's eye glass program and donation of body and organs through UT Southwestern Medical. He was an active member of the Methodist Church all his life.
John's knowledge (trivia) of Abilene, news, unusual areas in Texas, people, and weather was renoun. His children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren were a delight for him.
John is survived by his wife of 60 years, Chrystene; one daughter, Valerie Daniels (Will McGraw); five grandchildren, David Hays (Victoria), Lexie Ridgway, Blake Alvey (Brittney), Zackery Alvey, Mika Knight (Zachery); five great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Natalie Hays, Gage Ridgway, Adalie Saffel, and Harley Alvey.
John is preceded in death by both of his parents and daughter, Katrina Ridgway.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to any Lion's Club program, Aldersgate Abilene Methodist Church in Abilene, Texas or any other organization of your choice.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date.