James Randolph J.R. Downs

james randolph downs

December 2, 1942 ~ December 20, 2024

Born in: Asheville, NC
Resided in: Asheville, United States

James Randolph “J.R.” Downs, 82, died Dec 20, 2024. He was born Dec 2, 1942 to the late Thomas Linzie and Mary Brevard Downs in Carthage, Texas.

Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Sandra Buckner Downs; daughter, Suzanne Vasquez; son, Eric Downs (Shana); grandchildren, Daisy, John Linzie, and Sadie; and sister, Betty Crow (Mike).

Jesus said, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.John 11: 25-26

No services are planned per J.R.’s instructions.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to MANNA FoodBank, 99 Broadpointe Dr., Mills River, NC 28759, or to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306.

Services

Funeral Home Assisting The Family:

Groce Funeral Home - Patton Ave.
1401 Patton Ave.
Asheville, NC 28806

(828)252-3535
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com

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Memories Timeline

Guestbook

    • Thank you Robbie and Dylan. This is truly a huge change for me, but my children and loved ones
      will keep me going. Love, Nana

  1. Gudrun and I are so saddened about Randy’s Death. He was a good man and an even better friend. We had many good times growing up together and going to school together in Tatum. Prayers for the family.

  2. Sandra, I am so very. very sorry to read of JR’s passing. JR and Don could always find something to laugh at or about. Love, Carolyn

  3. Sandra I was so sorry to hear about Randy. He was a great friend of mine having gone to school with him from 1st – 12th grade and two years at Panola College. I have many fond memories of those years. Our prayers are with you and your family. He will be greatly missed.

  4. Sandra, Randy and I went to school together in Tatum and Jr. College. One summer his parents invited my mom and I to go on a trip to Hot Springs Ark. That was the first time for us to see mountains…I remember every spring he would get Poison Ivy and then get so upset to have to put that coalmine lotion all over him. So many good memories… I’m so sorry I didn’t get to see him over the years . He was a great friend and I will miss him along with those good ole Emails.

    • Thank you for your kind thoughts. JR and I had a wonderful life together. We were blessed with our two children and I know they will be here for me even more. I will really miss my soulmate.

  5. Sandra,I’m so sorry to hear that Randy has passed. We had some great fun times during the summers when I came to see Grandma.
    Take care of yourselves & remember he is now @ peace.☮️

    • Thank you Kamilla. What a life we’ve had. Suzanne and Eric are really close to us, and I know will be looked after now more than ever.

  6. Sandra, I am so sorry to hear of J.R.’s passing. We shared many hours together at work and in our efforts to keep the world straight. What a wonderful friend and person he was. His life and example left a lasting effect on the world. He loved you and his family, and he was forever proud of each of you. May God bless you always and give peace and comfort to you.

    • Thank you Larry. JR always thought of you during the games and other times as well. You have been a great friend to him over the years.

  7. Sandra and Family, We just found out from Tommy, so sorry for your loss, JR was a very sweet man who loved his family alot. There aren’t many of us left, family keeps getting small year after year. We are thinking of you and your family, keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Love to all, Linda, Tina, Beverly and family

    • Thanks to you Linda and Family. I’m missing J.R. terribly. We’ve had a wonderful life together, but now he has no pain. Suzanne lives nearby and Eric, Shana and family see us often. Thank you for reaching out. Love, Sandra

  8. Dearest Sandra,
    I send my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Words cannot express how sorry I am.
    I love you dearly,
    Dianne Burleson Phillips


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