James M. Downs, Sr. "Buddy", 89, of Abell, MD passed away on November 13, 2016 in Leonardtown, MD. Born on September 21, 1927 he was the son of the late Helen Bailey Downs and Clifton "Jake" Downs.

Buddy was the loving husband of Elizabeth Huseman Down, whom he married on September 6, 1947. Buddy is survived by his children: James M. Down, Jr. (Cindy) of Clements, MD, Sharon Barnes (Ron) of Clements, MD, Charles D. Downs (Rosine) of Compton, MD, 6 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. Siblings: Ann Downs Huseman, Thelma Downs Reingruber, Joseph Downs (Joe boy), Patricia "Patsy" Downs Troger. He was preceded in death by his siblings: Walter Bailey Downs, Thomas E. Downs "Nick" and Joan Downs.

Buddy was a lifelong resident of St. Mary's County and a lifelong parishioner of Holy Angels Catholic Church. He was a member of the Men's Club and 7th Dist Optimist Club. Buddy started a plumbing company in 1967, James M. Downs Plumbing and Heating and retired in 1992.

He enjoyed boating, feeding his ducks, gardening, maintaining his impeccable lawn and he loved eating oysters. He was also well known for his "McGiver" type skills. He had an uncanny ability to find a solution to a problem, an inconvenience or to something that just wouldn't work. He was loved and will be missed by all. Family requests donations be made to Holy Angels Catholic Church.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 17, 2016 from 5:00 Pm - 8:00 PM in Holy Angels Catholic Church Avenue, MD. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 18, 2016 at 10:00 AM in Holy Angels Catholic Church Avenue, MD with Father Anthony Lickteig officiating. Interment will follow in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Bushwood, MD. Pallbearers will be: R.T. Johnson, Todd Leitch, Don Owens, Ted Downs, David Hall, and Al Hayden, Jr. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, P.A. Leonardtown, MD.