James Francis Downes

James passed away peacefully at Sunrise Assisted Living in Alexandria, VA supported by his family. Jim was born in Dubuque, Iowa, the third child and oldest son of Capt. Robert S. Downes and Dolores Irene Downes. During his early years he and his sisters Ellen, Susan and Anne and brothers Robert and Peter traveled throughout the world following his Father’s Naval career. After returning to Washington in 1967 he attended Archbishop Carroll High School and served two years in the U.S. Army as a Military Policeman in Germany. He graduated from The University of Maryland in 1976.

He resided on Capitol Hill for 45 years. His career as a Computer Systems Manager and Programmer includes consulting work for IBM, Martin Marietta, Systems Integration Inc., to name a few. He was predeceased by his parents and his Sisters Ellen Kaye Amen and Ann Louise Kelly. He leaves his Sister Mary Susan Gindy and brothers Robert Jr and Peter Downes. He was lovingly Uncle to 16 niece’s and nephew’s and Great Uncle to 32 Great niece’s and nephews.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Columbus Street, Alexandria VA on Tuesday November 25, at 11:00 AM. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers please send contributions to Archbishop Carroll High School 4300 Harewood Road, NE, Washington DC 20017.