Richard A. ("Dicky") Downs

Douglas- Richard A. "Dicky" Downs, 82, of South St. died Tues. Feb. 19 at home surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 50 years Shirley A. (Farrar) Downs; 2 daughters Kathy and her husband John Brosnahan and Susan Leuci; 2 grandchildren Ashley Leuci and Timothy Brosnahan all of Douglas. He is also survived by his sister Virginia Tanca of Hollywood FL; a brother Robert Downs of Needham; and also many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Born in Whitinsville on Sept. 29, 1930 he was son of  Harry A. and M Elizabeth (Balcome) Downs and lived in Douglas all his life.
                  Richard was a lifelong dairy farmer.  He received the Worcester County Dairyman of the Year award in 1977 and was named Massachusetts Dairyman of the year in 1978. He was  involved in his community as a member of the Douglas Conservation Commission for 30 years, as an animal inspector for 22 years, a transfer station employee for 16 years, as well as a member of the Douglas Planning Board. Richard also was a Worcester County 4H Trustee,  a Grange member and former Master of the Douglas Grange, and he was chairman of the Blackstone Valley 4H Fair.
                  Richard enjoyed spending time with family and friends, watching the Red Sox, square dancing, bowling, gardening, and reading western books. He loved his horses and also leaves behind his beloved 4- legged companion "Bear".
                  His funeral service will be held on Sat. Feb. 23 at 11 a.m. in Jackman Funeral Home, 7 Mechanic St.. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery.  Calling hours at the funeral home will be Fri. Feb. 22 from 4-7 p.m. and Sat. Feb. 23 from 10-11 a.m. In Lieu of flowers, donations in Richard's memory may be made to Central MA Hospice; 191 Pakachoag St. Auburn MA 01501. To leave a condolence message please visit www.jackmanfuneralhomes.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard A. ("Dicky") Downs, please visit our floral store.