Greer, South Carolina

Roosevelt Downs, Jr., was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who valiantly served our country for 28 years in both the United States Army and the Army National Guard. Roosevelt received his final duty orders on November 25, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, honor, and unwavering dedication to his family and his nation.

Roosevelt was born on December 10, 1955, to the late Mamie Lee and Roosevelt Downs, Sr., and was raised in Greer, SC. He attended James F. Byrnes High School in Duncan, SC.

In 1977, Roosevelt enlisted in the Army with a sense of duty that defined his remarkable military career. His commitment led him to serve in California, Germany, Indiana, Kansas, Korea, Kuwait, Mississippi, Texas, Virginia, and Washington, as well as serve two tours in Afghanistan, where he displayed courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Roosevelt earned the respect and admiration of his comrades for his selfless service and unyielding dedication to the principles of duty and honor.

Roosevelt was the recipient of numerous military honors including: Afghanistan Campaign Medal (4 stars), Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal (x2), Army Good Conduct Medal (x3), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (x3), Armed Forces Reserve Medal with 'M' Device, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with 10-year Device-Bronze, and Driver and Mechanic Badge.

Beyond his military achievements, Roosevelt was a man of faith and loving and devoted husband for 41 years to Deborah. Meeting in the summer of 1976, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared experiences. Their bond was a testament to the strength of enduring love and partnership, weathering the challenges of military life with grace and resilience.

A pillar of support to his family, Roosevelt leaves behind four children, Antonio Downs of Spartanburg, SC, Lakia Downs of Moore, SC, Ratysha Downs of Greer, SC, and Kamaria Downs of Duncan, SC. After his retirement from the military, he committed to several tours of babysitting. He was affectionately known as "Papa" to his six grandchildren, Zakiyah, Ryann, Marley, Zuri, Brennon, and Khalid and two great-grandchildren, Carmen and Camaree, all of whom he cherished deeply.  He had an amazing impact on their lives. He would read to them, teach them how to ride their bikes, and sneak them chocolate candy. His legacy lives on through the values he instilled in his family – a legacy of hard work, love, and unwavering commitment to one another.

Known for his infectious warmth and genuine kindness, Roosevelt never met a stranger. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life was a testament to his open heart and welcoming spirit. He leaves behind a community of friends and acquaintances who will remember him for his generosity, humor, and the lasting impact he made on their lives.

A devoted fan of the San Francisco 49ers, Roosevelt found joy in cheering for his favorite football team, creating lasting memories with family and friends during game days. Beyond sports, he had a deep love for grilling, cooking, photography, and music, sharing melodies that resonated with his soul and brought joy to those around him.

In his role as provider and protector, Roosevelt worked tirelessly to ensure the well-being of his family. His sacrifices, both in uniform and at home, exemplified the true meaning of selflessness and dedication.

Roosevelt was preceded in death by his sister, Gloria Elrod, fathers-in-law, Cecil Brockman and James Fulton, Sr., maternal grandmother, Ethel Gilliam Wallace, and paternal grandparents, Azon (Bub) and Dora Lee Downs.

Left to cherish fond memories in addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren are his brother, Barren Downs; beloved uncle, Azon Downs; mothers-in-law, Shirley Fulton, Ella Grace Brockman; brothers-in-law, James Fulton, Jr., Ricky (Debra) Brockman, Curtis (Shun) Brockman, Cedric (Claudia) Brockman; sisters-in-law, Charmaine Aiken, Tammy Brockman; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and his work and military community.

The passing of Roosevelt leaves a void in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be remembered for his strength, his kindness, and the love he showered upon his family. As we mourn the loss of a patriot, let us also celebrate the extraordinary life of a man who lived with purpose, touched the lives of many, and left an indelible mark on our hearts.

Funeral service will be Friday, December 1, 2023, 11:00 AM at Aiken Chapel Baptist Church with military rites.  Burial will take place on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, 10:00AM M J Dolly Veteran Cemetery in Anderson, SC.  Public viewing will take place on Thursday, November 30, 2023, from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM at Sullivan Bros. Mortuary Inc.

Please sign the guestbook and leave a thoughtful condolence or special memory for the Downs family.

The Downs family is being cared for by Sullivan Bros. Mortuary Inc. and Cremation Centers of South Carolina.