Everett William Downs

Everett William Downs, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 18, 2025, in Holt, Missouri, at the age of 82. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, on March 3, 1942, Everett was known for his hard-working and selfless nature, always putting the needs of his friends and family above his own.

Everett's career spanned 32 years at Ford, where he retired as an upgrader. He was admired not only for his dedication to his work but also for his integrity; his colleagues affectionately dubbed him "Abe," a testament to his admirable honesty. Before his time at Ford, Everett proudly served in the United States Army for four years, during which he honed his skills as a code breaker in Germany. Throughout his life, Everett showcased his remarkable talents in various disciplines. A true craftsman, he had a natural ability for woodworking, creating beautiful and intricate pieces, including carved scenes into gun butts and crafting furniture that will be treasured by his friends and family. His passion extended into the realm of automotive repair, where he spent countless hours working on cars, rebuilding engines, and teaching his extensive knowledge to his children, grandchildren, and friends. His love for racing was reflected in his pride in his 1969 Chevelle, a car he drove with unmatched skill, often racing at KCIR Raceway. Everett's legacy is rooted in the love he had for his family, especially his wife, Patricia, whom he met and fell in love with shortly after returning from military service. Together, they built a loving home where Everett tirelessly worked to ensure that his wife and children were well taken care of, even into their adulthood.

Everett was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary Downs; his beloved wife, Patricia Downs; his siblings, Elizabeth Downs, Jim Downs, Leroy Downs, John Downs, Bobby Hartwig, and Richard Downs; his children, Troy Downs and Shelley Downs; and his grandson, Justin Downs. His loving legacy lives on through his children, Paula Justice (Rob), Chris Downs, and Chad Downs; his sisters, Gloria Jean Williams and Rita Downs; his family friend, Danny Martinez; his sister-in-law, Shirley Downs; 9 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Visitation for Everett will take place on February 25, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Carson-Speaks Chapel in Independence, Missouri. The funeral service will be held the following day, February 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM, also at Carson-Speaks Chapel, followed by a graveside at Oak Ridge Memory Gardens. Flowers are welcome, but friends and family may also donate to St. Jude's in his honor.