Kenneth Downs

Kenneth Oliver “Kenny” Downs, age 62 of Beardstown, died Friday, September 4, 2020 in Mt. Sterling.

He was born December 28, 1957 in Rushville, the son of Homer Oliver and Vada Kirkham Downs. He married Debbie Jarrett on March 17, 1979 in Beardstown and she survives.

He is also survived by his mother Vada Downs of Rushville; his son Travis Downs of Rushville; his daughter Tiffany (husband Chris) Burton of Meredosia; four grandchildren Brady and Brynlea Downs and Brennan and Hayden Burton; two brothers Chris (wife Barb) Downs and Darrin Downs both of Rushville; his mother-in-law Delores Jarrett of Beardstown; a brother-in-law Bobby (wife Adora) Jarrett of Beardstown; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, his father-in-law Bob Jarrett, and a niece Mandy.

Kenny graduated from Rushville High School in the class of 1976. He had worked for Knipmeyers and Alters in Beardstown, before his 25-year career with the City of Beardstown, retiring as sexton. For the past 14 years, he has been running a route to Colorado for DOT Foods in Mt. Sterling, and was currently still employed with them. Kenny liked tinkering in his garage and was known as his own personal contractor during home improvements. He enjoyed deer hunting and had a passion for riding his Harley, but most of all his cherished each moment spent with his grandchildren.

Private family services will be held with burial at Walnut Ridge Cemetery in Virginia. The family will meet with friends from 11 AM-1 PM Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown. Friends are encouraged to watch Kenny’s services streaming live at 1:00 PM, Tuesday, September 8, 2020 on the funeral home website at www.colwellmemorialhome.com.

Due to the current health situation, face masks will be required and to comply with social distancing guidelines, a limited number of people will be allowed in the memorial home at one time.

Memorials have been suggested to American Heart Association. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.