Ronald Lee Downs, 97, of Fairmont, WV, passed away peacefully at home on June 6, 2026. He was born on September 2, 1928 in Fairmont, son of the late Hugh and Marion (Minnie) McNeil Downs.

He grew up in Farmington. He retired from the U.S. Air Force after 20 years of service as a Loadmaster. Throughout his military career he traveled the world, living in Iran, Japan and England. He served during WWII, the Korean and Vietnam Wars. After retiring from the military, he earned an Associate Degree in Electronics Engineering Technology. He was a master electrician and locksmith. He was a lifelong seeker of knowledge.

As a competitive athlete, he loved golf and belonged to Green Hills Country Club for many years. He enjoyed traveling and playing golf with a special group of friends. He had his private pilot’s license. He also enjoyed archery, darts, fishing, boating, water skiing, playing guitar and singing.

He is survived by his wife, Debra, children: Rhonda(Steven) Cornelius of Atlanta, GA, Walter Downs of Charleston, SC, Donna(Joe) Eelman of Charleston, SC, Paul(Charlynn) Ezell of Anderson, SC, Sherry Bazar of Honey Path, SC, grandchildren: Richard, Jonathan, Zachary, Tabitha, Kimberly, Walter Lee, Todd, Shawn, Scott, Sabrina, Jason, Billy, Melissa, Brandy and Joey and many great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Larry(Tanzy) Downs of Farmington, WV. He is preceded in death by his brothers, Jerry Downs, Don Downs, and sisters, Norma Jean(Sam) Sinisi and June Ann Pileggi.

Visitation for friends and family will be at Domico’s Funeral Home, 414 Gaston Ave, Fairmont, Thursday, June 11th at 3pm-7pm and Friday, June 12th at 10am until the time of the service at 11am with Pastor David McCombs officiating. Interment and military honors will follow the service at Grandview Memorial Gardens.

A special “Thank You” goes out to Lora and Drew Prosko, the wonderful teams at Amedisys and Marion County Senior Center.

Memorial contributions may be donated in his memory to the Marion County Humane Society, WV, online at mchswv.com. Memorial contributions can also be mailed to the Marion County Humane Society, P.O. Box 905, Fairmont, WV 26554.