Jeffrey B. Downes passed away peacefully on Dec. 25. He was 75 years old.
Born on July 19, 1940, he was the son of Morford L. Downes and Pearl Antoinette Brownne of Greenwich. Jeff was born and raised in town, and graduated from Greenwich High School in the class of 1959. He served in the United States Navy.
He was owner and president of Morford L. Downes, Inc., and also was a successful independent building consultant.
Jeff is survived by brother Steven Downes of Florida; daughter Lisa Downes Helfrich (Josh); stepson David Stewart (Meg); stepdaughter Pam Stewart Wurst (Chris); and stepdaughter Susan Stewart (Mike). He is also survived by grandchildren Sean Helfrich, Nicholas Stewart, Virginia Stewart, Ben Wurst and Dan Wurst.
He was predeceased by his past wife, Shirley C. Downes, and by his wife, Nancy Stewart Downes, as well as by brother Richard Downes and stepson Brian Hilliker.
Jeff was a life member and past commodore of the Mianus River Boat & Yacht Club in Cos Cob and was a past president of the Jaycees. He was also a member of the RTM.
Jeff had many interests. He particularly loved to fish, boat, travel, cook, and garden. More than anything, Jeff loved to be with friends and family. He especially loved his grandchildren, and glowed in their successes, yet always provided thoughtful wisdom and advice through their trials.
He was known for his whimsical rhymes and life stories of adventure and mischief. He truly lived, and encouraged others to live, life to its fullest. He was always extremely generous, had a heart of gold, and loved to bring a smile to the faces of young and old alike. Another love was the Mianus River Boat & Yacht Club and the wonderful friendships he formed there.
A celebration of his life was held on Tuesday, Dec. 29 at the Mianus River Boat & Yacht Club. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you always remember to live your life to the fullest.
