CARTHAGE, NY – Gail Nelson Downing, 77, of West Street, Carthage, passed away Sunday morning, Dec. 1, 2019, at Carthage Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing.
Gail was born on Nov. 24, 1942, in Carthage, NY, a son to the late John LeRoy and Irene (Champion) Downing. After John Downing’s passing, Irene remarried Gail’s step-father, George Buck Jr. He attended Carthage Central School and went on to work various jobs including, working on a farm for a short time. He did black top construction for his step-father and Theisher Construction. He retired from T.F. Wright & Sons Granite Company as a granite cutter.
On Aug. 25, 1962, Gail married Sharon VerBeck in Great Bend, NY. They were married 57 years.
Gail loved to go fishing, hunting and bowling. But most of all, he loved to spend time with his family and friends.
Surviving are his loving wife, Sharon; his children, Tessa Prince, Antwerp, NY; Gail LeRoy Downing, Carthage, NY; two sisters, Marlene (Bob) Landes, Bliarcliff Manor, NY; Linda (John) Moody, Carthage, NY; two step-sisters, Carol Laning, Watertown, NY; Sandy Tilliston, Auburn, NY; seven grandchildren, and nine and three quarters great-grandchildren (one on the way); and many extended family members.
Gail was predeceased by a brother, John “Gary” Downing; his step-father, George Buck Jr., two sons, Billy Joe and Leon Downing, and two half-sisters, Diane and Louise Downing.
Gail’s family would like to thank all the loving caregivers from Lewis County Nursing Home and Carthage Center Nursing Home for all their hard work and compassion.
Per the family’s request, there will be no public services for Gail at this time. A Celebration of Life will take place in the spring at the family’s convenience.
Memorial donations may be made in Gail’s name to Samaritan Medical Center Foundation of NNY, Inc., 830 Washington St. Watertown, NY 13601.
Arrangements are entrusted to Lundy Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc., 500 State St., Carthage, NY 13619.
Condolences may be posted online a www.lundyfuneralhome.com.