Ray Eugene Downing, 74, of Ozark, Missouri passed away Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at his home. He was born October 12, 1950, in Warrensburg, Missouri, the son of Marion and Betty (Martin) Downing. On October 7, 1995, Ray was united in marriage to Leca (Carr) Henderson in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Ray proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army till retiring in July of 1995. After retirement he went back to work as a Safety Director for Hagale Industries, before starting his own business, Southland Occupational Safety which he owned and worked till December 2021. Ray enjoyed time with his family and especially his grandchildren Ricky, Romeo, Leighton, and Everleigh, riding motorcycles and ATV’s, as well as riding with the Patriot Guard, and target shooting.
Ray is survived by his wife of 29 years, Leca; daughter Dawn Solis Toldedo (Downing) and husband Ricardo of Des Moines, Iowa; two sons Daniel Carr and wife Danielle of New Tampa, Florida and Michael Downing of Des Moines, Iowa; grandchildren Ricky Ray Solis Downing, Romeo Enedino Sol Downing, Leighton Lee Carr, Everleigh Marie Carr; brother David Downing and wife Kris of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; sister-in-law Dianna Downing of Kearney, Missouri; nieces, nephews, and many loving friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Don Downing.
Visitation for Ray will be 12:30 to 2:30 Thursday, November 7, 2024 in Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark. Internment will follow at 3:00 P.M. at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield with full military honors. Motorcycle escort to the cemetery will be provided by Warrior’s Watch Riders. Donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research or Ozark Chapter Care to Learn, 1600 W. Jackson Str. Ozark, Missouri 65721. Online condolences may be shared at www.barnesfamilyfunerals.com.
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Tom Courtney says
October 31, 2024 at 8:01 pmLeca and family, you’re all in my prayers for sure. Ray leaves a HUGE empty spot in a lot of hearts, mine included. You were a good man and kind soul. Rest easy my old friend, your work here is done.
Russ & Cindy Newton says
October 31, 2024 at 8:18 pmFarewell my friend. Even though we only met when Cindy and I moved in across the street from you and Leca last year, it seemed like we’d known each other for a long time. It’s hard to count all the extended conversations we had on both sides of the street about fishin’, ridin’ and all other forms of recreation. I was hoping to have the opportunity to re-learn how to fish from you, but we know you’re catching all the big ones up there now. It was obvious to both of us that you had a zest for life that we envied, and we can only hope some of that rubbed off on us. Thank you for a life well lived and your work to maintain and support our nation’s freedom. Carry on, my friend, and know we’re rootin’ for you at the fishin’ hole! Some guy summed it up like this…”3/4 of the world is covered with water and only 1/4 land, therefore it’s quite obvious the Good Lord intended for us to spend triple the amount of time fishing as mowing the lawn”.
Michael Okland says
November 5, 2024 at 5:07 pmMy condolences and prayers to Leca and family. Ray was an amazing friend to my Dad and our family. As my brothers and sister will agree, Ray was our Uncle. I will never forget one of Ray’s many “Life Quotes” and how relevant they are today. Case in point…”They are about as useful as a one-legged guy in an ass-kicking contest!”. Ray was my Army recruiter that sent me on my way to Active Duty of which I gained notable and valuable experiences. It was great to see and speak with Ray and Leca last November when they made the long drive to Norwalk, IA for my parents’ 50th Wedding Anniversary…their presence meant so much to our family. Although I am not able to attend his Memorial-Visitation, I will be saluting Ray from Colorado. Thank you for your service Soldier and know that you will continue to keep watch and protect us from above.
Wes St.Clair says
November 7, 2024 at 9:49 amWe are so sad to hear about Ray’s passing. I have nothing but good memories of Ray. He was always kind and easy to talk to, and we always looked forward to seeing him and Leca at family gatherings. Ray has a loving soul, and will be missed. A donation to Ozark Care to Learn has been made in his memory. – Wes, Crystal, Sam and Ella