Gilbert Leroy Downing Sr., 62 died February 10, 2018 at his home.

Funeral services will be Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 1:00 P.M. at Ebenezer Baptish Church with Pastor Michael Kelley officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Thursday, Feb. 15th from 12:00 until 1:00 P.M. at the church. The Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home has been entrusted with the final care.

Gilbert was born May 7, 1955, to John H. Downing, Sr. and Sarah Mary James (Wilson) Downing.

Gilbert attended Atchison Public Schools, graduating from Atchison High in 1974. Gilbert perused studies at Fort Scott Junior College and the University of Kansas. In his youth Gilbert was known for his outstanding skills on the football field.

Gilbert loved his children and gave them unconditional support throughout his life. Gilbert was an avid fan of KU, he loved watching and attending sporting events. Gilbert loved his family and always doing his part to be some of the humor at reunions and other family gatherings.

Gilbert was formerly employed with UPS and the youth center in Atchison.

Most of all Gilbert accepted Christ at a young age and knew/loved Jesus Christ. Gilbert was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church, throughout his lifetime.

Sadly, Gilbert departed this life peacefully at home surrounded by family as he requested on Saturday, February 10, 2018.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Johnny and Mary James Downing, and is brother’s John “Lou Jack” Downing, Harold Downing, and an infant daughter.

Gilbert is survived by three sons Jason (Annie) Downing, Miami Beach, FL, Gilbert Downing, Jr, Shawnee, KS, Chester Downing, Atchison, KS, a daughter, Chesney Downing, Atchison, KS, two grandsons Miles and Landon Downing, Miami Beach, FL, two brothers George Downing, Atchison, KS, and Jovarie Downing, Topeka, KS, a sister Justine Downing, Little Rock, AR, three aunts, nine nieces and nephews and a host of cousins and other relatives.