Jerry D Downing

November 10, 1931 - April 13, 2020

Jerry D. Downing, 88, lifelong Rawlins and Thomas County, KS resident died Monday, April 13th at McCrite Health Center, Topeka, KS. Jerry was born November 10, 1931, in McCook, NE, the only child of Virgle Willis (Jerry) and Franis Hannah (Hollembeak) Downing. The family farmed in southwest Rawlins and northwest Thomas counties in KS, the area known at the South Divide. Jerry attended Ilion Rural School, Colby High School and served as an aircraft mechanic in the US Air Force from 1953-1956. In 1951, he met Lorraine Miller, a nearby school teacher; they married May 30, 1953 in Arriba, CO. To this union three children were born. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine; children, Keith (Mary Ann), Karen Gatlin (Fred, dec.), and Harlan (Mylinda); six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren with one due this summer. Cremation was chosen. A private family graveside service with military honors will be held at a later date in Colby, KS. The family suggests memorial may be made to the American Legion Post 363 or Sons of American Legion Squadron 363, 1850 West 4th St., Colby KS 67701.