Willis Downs

CAPE GIRARDEAU - Willis A. Downs, 83, formerly of Charleston, died at 8:50 p.m. Feb. 28, 2003, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.

Born March 19, 1919, in Charleston, son of the late Jesse E. and Bette Rogers Downs, he lived most of his life in Charleston and was a graduate of Charleston High School and a member of the United Methodist Church in Charleston. He was employed by the City of Charleston for many years, first as city engineer and then as city manager until his retirement. A U.S. Army veteran serving with the 158th Combat Engineers, he was a charter member of the Charleston VFW Post 4294 and served as Charleston's mayor in 1982-83.

On Jan. 15, 1946, he married Jo Ann Frazier who preceded him in death on March 31, 2001.

One son, Wayne Downs, and two sisters, Willie Wade and Pauline Beasley, also preceded him in death.

Survivors include: one son and daughter-in-law, Willis M. and Nancy Downs of Cape Girardeau; one brother, Edward Downs of Cape Girardeau; two grandchildren, Kimberly A. Pennel of Euless, Texas and Tyler M. Downs of Roanoke, Texas; and three great-grandchildren.

Graveside services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday at the IOOF Cemetery north of Charleston with the Rev. Roger Jespersen, pastor of the United Methodist Church of Charleston, officiating.

Burial will follow under the direction of McMikle Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions

may be sent to

United Methodist Church

1700 East Marshall St.

Charleston, Mo. 63834