In Loving Memory of Ross Lee Downey

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Ross Lee Downey, 73, of Desloge, Missouri, who passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

Ross was born on August 1, 1953, to the late Darby and Yvette Downey. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 20 years, a chapter of his life of which he was deeply proud. Following his military career, Ross spent the next 21 years serving the State of Missouri as a Probation and Parole Officer.

For 21 years, Ross courageously faced Parkinson's disease. Through every challenge it brought, he continued to serve others, love his family, nurture his faith, and make memories with those he loved. Parkinson's may have changed some things about his life, but it never defined the man he was.

Service to others was woven into nearly every part of Ross's life. He spent several years as a counselor during Boys Week at Bates Creek Baptist Camp and participated in numerous mission trips, both stateside and abroad, including trips to Mexico and Turkey. He also served with the Missouri Baptist Disaster Relief Team. Closer to home, Ross volunteered at the Park Hills Senior Center, delivering Meals on Wheels to homebound seniors throughout the local community.

Ross loved the Lord and faithfully served Him as a member of Elvins Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher. His faith was evident not only in the church, but in the way he lived his life—through his service, generosity, compassion, and love for others.

Ross's greatest joy was his family. He loved taking trips with his family, making memories together, and supporting his grandchildren at their many sporting events. He was a proud husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and his family was at the center of his life.

Ross was preceded in death by his parents, Darby and Yvette Downey; his in-laws, Charlie and Josephine Franklin; sisters-in-law Linda Higgins and Jean Jennings; and brother-in-law Joe Jennings.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Debbie (Franklin) Downey; daughters, Stephanie Miller of Desloge, Missouri, and Emily Renee (Matt) Holdinghausen of Crystal City; son, Jason (Ruthie) Downey of Brownsburg, Indiana; grandchildren, Abbey (Justin) Nack of Arnold, Ian Holdinghausen of Columbia, Missouri, and Luke (Kayla Dierker) Holdinghausen of Crystal City; great-granddaughter, Elizabeth Nack; sister, Jeannie (Roger) Lewis of Park Hills, Missouri; sister-in-law, Donna (Will) Kennon of O'Fallon, Missouri; brother-in-law, Butch Higgins of Park Hills, Missouri; bonus children, Tammie and Terry Barnett; along with many very special nieces, nephews, friends, and loved ones.

And, of course, Sassy—the cat Ross never really wanted and insisted couldn't stay, but who somehow became his loyal companion and remained by his side until the very end.

Ross lived a life of service, faith, family, and love. He served his country, his community, his church, and the people around him. But most of all, he loved his family. His presence will be deeply missed, his stories will be remembered, and the many lives he touched will carry his memory forward.

Visitation will be held at Elvins Baptist Church in Park Hills, Missouri, on Wednesday, August 26, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a funeral service beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Interment will take place at a later date at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, where Ross will be honored with full military honors in recognition of his 20 years of faithful service to his country.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are appreciated to Mineral Area Camp of Gideons International  sendtheword.org   or Bates Creek Baptist Camp https://www.batescreekcamp.com/ two organizations that reflect Ross's lifelong commitment to faith, service, and helping others.

Until we meet again.

Arrangements by Horton-Wampler Funeral Home.