Gerald O. Downham

Gerald “Gerry” Owen Downham of Lafayette, died Sunday January 16, 2022, surrounded by his family. He was 68.

Gerry was a very loving husband, dad, and grandfather whose greatest joy was to be with his family. Graduating from Wainwright High School in 1971, where he married his
“beautiful wife” Shirley Horney on August 4, 1972. She survives. They have 3 children. Kristie (Husband Rob) McFatridge of Otterbein, Kraig (wife Melissa) Downham of Indianapolis, and Kevin (wife Amy) Downham of Clarks Hill. They have 8 grandchildren, which was his whole world. Kylie and Logan McFatridge, Makenna, Lydia and Luke Downham, Keegan, Karson, and Kendall Downham.

He worked at AE Staley, later became Tate and Lyle for 38 years, where he retired in 2015. He spent his spare time doing many activities with his family. He was an avid old car fan where he participated in numerous car shows the past few years with his 1930 Ford. He was very proud of his many awards he earned. He enjoyed watching sports, NASCAR, listening to 70’s music, playing euchre and other competitive games with his family. He attended as many events for his children and grandchildren as he could. Sometimes numerous events in one day.  

Visitation will be Saturday, January 22, 2022, from 10am until the time of the service at 12pm, at Genda Funeral Home ~ Mulberry Chapel.  Burial will follow at Johnson Cemetery in Stockwell.  Online condolences maybe left at www.gendafuneralhome.com.    

In lieu of memorial donations, the family would ask you to spend time with your family in making loving memories that are priceless. We are forever grateful we have done this to have ours.