James Leon Downing

James Leon Downing passed away on January 26, 2021 having lived a life that blessed everyone who knew him. Jim was born June 20, 1942 to Milton and Mary (Skinner) Downing in Syracuse New York. After high school Jim served a mission to the Southwest Indian Mission out of Gallup, New Mexico and had a great love for the people he met there. He married Leslie Lane Johnson on August 11, 1967 in the Idaho Falls Temple. Jim attended Ricks College and Utah State University where he got his teaching degree in Industrial Arts. After Leslie passed away, Jim was once again blessed with a wonderful companion. He married Lyn Larson on April 20, 2000 in the Salt Lake Temple. They shared many wonderful adventures together.

Jim was a kind man who loved the scriptures and loved the Savior. He was a bright ray of sunshine to everyone around him. Jim could always be found helping a neighbor, enjoying time with his family and friends, working on his amazing wood carvings, or traveling when his health allowed. During his teaching career he touched the lives of thousands of students. For many he has been a steady rock in a sea of storms. He was a wonderful example of finding joy in trials, love in people, and comfort in Christ. We will miss him.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his wife Leslie Johnson Downing; his brothers John Downing, Tom Downing, and George Downing; his sisters Mary Slyck and Elsie Korthas.  He is survived by his wife Lyn Larson Downing; daughter Juliel (John) Davis; grandchildren Matthew Davis, Hunter Davis, and Alexandra (Richard) Powell; and proud of his great granddaughter, Dixie Rae; his brother Frank (Shirley) Downing; sister Clara Podger; step brother Robert Jansen; and step sisters Barbara, Leonore, Janice, Carol, and Georgine. 

In person services will be for family only on Saturday, January 30^th, 11:00 a.m. at McDougal Funeral Home. Any who wish to participate may do so through the live stream link: https://vimeo.com/505429752.  Jim will be interred at Salem Utah Cemetery, 965 South 140 East, Salem Utah, at approximately 1:15pm.

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