George R. Downing, Sr. 81, of Old Farm Rd., formerly of Pleasant St., Southbridge, died Wednesday, Jan. 25th, in the Radius Healthcare Center, Southbridge, after an illness.
His wife, Beverly (Peters) Downing, died in 2003. He leaves a son, George R. Downing, Jr. and his wife Janet of Sturbridge; four daughters, Sharon Boyd and her husband Chandler of Sturbridge, Kim E. Downing and her husband Edward “Dusty” Shead of Shrewsbury, Gale Bourget and her husband Al of Holden and Dawn Chaput and her husband Arthur of South Carolina; a brother, Delbert Downing of New Hampshire; 10 Grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

     He was born in Malden the son of Michael and Mary (Douling) Downing. He was a US Army Veteran of the Korean War. George was a self employed Employment Recruiter for many years, retiring several years ago. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Southbridge and a member of the Improved Order of Red Men also in Southbridge.

     George loved to dance and was well known for his quick wit and a great sense of humor. Above all he was a devoted husband and father.

     His funeral will be held on Friday, Jan. 27th, at 11:00am in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge. Burial will follow in the Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. A calling hour in the funeral home will be held on Friday, Jan. 27th, from 10:00 to 11:00am prior to the service.