Francis Leroy Downey was born on July 11, 1941, in Buffalo, Oklahoma, to John Francis Downey and Helen Victoria (Jackson) Downey. He departed this world on July 5, 2025, in Purcell, Oklahoma, at the age of 83 years.
Francis grew up in Buffalo, Oklahoma. In the summer of 1958 Sue Robinson moved to Buffalo. Francis was a lifeguard at the time and he started flirting with the new girl, Sue. He pushed her into the pool, not knowing that she couldn’t swim. Of course, he had to jump in and save her. The two married on April 4, 1959. They were married for 58 years prior to her passing on March 22, 2017.
Francis worked several jobs over his lifetime, a mechanic, pipeline worker, an oilfield driller, a tool pusher but most proudly known as an accomplished horseman and beloved friend to fellow horsemen. He spent the majority of his life doing what he loved the most, training horses all over the United States.
Francis, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, absolutely loved spending time with his family. From sporting events to family gatherings Francis was there with a smile that went from ear to ear. He was so proud of his family.
Francis will be dearly missed by those that knew and loved him.
Francis is survived by his son, Mark Downey and Cathy of Mustang, Oklahoma; daughter, Jandra Brooksher of Maysville, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Ty Keenan, Melina Howard, Shane Downey, Brianne Evans and Baylea Brooksher; and 10 great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Sue Downey; his parents, John and Helen Downey; and brothers, John Ray Downey and Dennis Paul Downey.
Memorial Services were held Monday, July 14, 2025, at Winans Funeral Home Chapel in Maysville, Oklahoma. Arrangements are under the direction of John W. Williams of Winans Funeral Home in Maysville, Oklahoma.
Words of comfort may be sent to the family at www.winansfuneralhome.com.