The Richmond News, July 17, 2026

James Downs

James David “Jimmie” Downs, 91, of Richmond passed away Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond. Jimmie was born Jan. 27, 1935, in Richmond, the son of David Melvin and Loretta (Viles) Downs. He is survived by two sons, Rick (Sheryl) Downs and Steve (Carla) Downs; one daughter, Cathy (Mike) Judd; and four grandchildren, Erin (Tony) Phillips, Megan Downs (Aaron Siefers), Jessica Judd and Zachary (Annie) Downs. He also is survived by three step-grandsons, Andrew Fuchs, Nathan (Kamala) Conley and Nick Conley; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Jimmie was preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Wanda Sue “Subie” Downs; parents; and sister and brother-in-law, Bertha Frances (Downs) Thomson and Harry Thomson.

A lifelong resident of Richmond, Jimmie graduated in 1953 from Richmond High School.

He married Subie, his high school sweetheart, on June 6, 1954. Together, they shared 71 years of marriage and built a loving family. His greatest joy in life was the love he shared with Subie and the family they built together.

Jimmie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who cherished every moment spent with those he loved.

Jimmie worked as an airplane mechanic for Trans World Airlines (TWA) at the Kansas City overhaul base and retired after a rewarding career. He often said he was fortunate to have a job he truly enjoyed.

One of the many benefits of his employment with TWA was the opportunity to travel the world with his family, creating memories that lasted a lifetime.

His love of aviation extended beyond his career. Determined to experience flight from the pilot’s seat, he earned his private pilot’s license and enjoyed flying planes such as a Cessna 150. One of his favorite memories was taking his grandmother on her first-ever airplane ride. He also enjoyed building and collecting model airplanes.

Jimmie was known for his remarkable ability to fix almost anything. He crafted his own knives, created gunstocks from tree slabs, and built furniture with skill and pride.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and archery throughout his life. He also was an avid treasure hunter who loved exploring with his metal detector, searching for historical artifacts at places such as the Battle of Lexington site.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Shirkey Hospice & Palliative Care; 701 Wollard Blvd.; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation and memorial services will be held Saturday, July 25, at Richmond First Baptist Church, 306 W. Main Street, Richmond. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., with memorial services to follow at 11.

Inurnment will take place at a later date. The arrangements are entrusted to Hidden Valley Funeral Home of Richmond. Website: www.hiddenvalleyfunerals. com.