James ‘Jim’ ODonald Downing, 89, died December 6, 2023, at his home in Hutchinson. He was born September 15, 1934, in Wichita, to Oval and Marie Alice (White) Downing.
Jim graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1952. In 1957, he joined the U.S. Army. He worked as a truck driver for Dillons for many years and retired in May of 1997.
James was a huge basketball fan, he enjoyed being outdoors and doing the yard work at home, but his favorite thing to do was attending all of his grandchildren’s activities and spending time with them.
He was a loving and devoted husband, dad, and papa.
On June 10, 1961, he married Geneva Sue Hiebert in Hutchinson. They shared 62 years of marriage.
James is survived by: his wife, Geneva Downing of Hutchinson, KS; children, Jamie (Kirk) Light and Jeff (Pam) Downing both of Hutchinson, KS; grandchildren, Pamela Light of Hutchinson, KS, Kristen (Kiel) Hargett of Port Orchard, WA, Jordan and Carter Downing of Hutchinson, KS; great-grandchildren, Kinsley Light of Hutchinson, KS, Tavrick Reed of Hutchinson, KS, Riley and Ryker Hargett of Port Orchard, WA.
He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant grandson.
Cremation has taken place. No services are planned. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily until visitation. Family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Thursday, December 14, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary. A private burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the donors’ choice, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.