David Ray Downes

David R. Downes, 72, of Ward, went to his Heavenly home on Thursday April 28, 2022 surrounded by his three daughters and loved ones. David was born on June 17, 1949, in Little Rock, Ark., to the late David W. Downes and Freda M. White. In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Jean Anderson; as well as two infant brothers, Jerry D. Downes and Larry D. Downes. David proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and retired from 21 years of honorable service as a Master Sergeant and Vietnam veteran. After his retirement from the Air Force, he spent many years working as a software engineer for different corporations. Although he loved his jobs, his three daughters were always David's number one love and priority. When his daughters grew and moved out, his four-legged sons Willie and Albert became his everything. David had a passion for NASCAR like no other and tried to catch every big race he possibly could. He was definitely a one-of-a-kind jokester whose laughter could be heard across the house. David is survived by his daughters, Rochelle (Majid) Adineh-Kharat of Cabot, Nyla (Dillon) Hart of Cabot and Crystal (Jerry) Sanders of Springdale; sister, Pamela Downes; brothers, Richard and Allan Downes; as well as five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at Moore's Jacksonville Funeral Home. Interment with full military honors at Sumner Cemetery in Cabot will take place immediately following the service. Visitation will be the evening prior, 6-8:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at the funeral home. David's daughters would like to extend a special thanks to all the wonderful staff at Des Arc Nursing and Rehabilitation, Arkansas Hospice, and Unity Health in Searcy.