Jay William Downs

At the age of 67, Jay William Downs peacefully passed away in his home with his family close by. For two and a half years he courageously battled pancreatic cancer and was determined to ”beat it”. On April 22, 2014, he took his last breath and ”graduated” from his life on earth.
Jay was born August 22, 1946 in S.L.C., Utah to Elvin and Neva Ash Downs. Jay was always fun loving, but most of all a hard worker. He was only about 12 when he got his first job. His work ethic was amazing and if Jay was asked to do something, you knew the job would get done. He didn't need to be asked twice, and he didn't need to write it down. He was a real doer.
Jay served in the 19th Special Forces National Guard, 144th Evac. Hospital unit, after high school. He then accepted a mission call to Australia for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints from 1966-1968. Jay remained true to his faith in the Savior until the end, always willing to serve where called. He served as elders quorum president, bishop, high priest group leader, high councilman, scoutmaster, and various teaching assignments.
Jay married Lisbeth Wallin on September 8, 1969 and settled in Salt Lake. Jay's optimistic attitude and entrepreneurial spirit saw him through several business ventures, some that worked out and some that didn't, but he was never one to give up. He sent his last business related e-mail just a few days before his death.
Jay will be remembered for his optimistic attitude and hard work, never shying away from any job, whether sitting around a conference table or traveling all over the world, to mucking out stalls or old home demolition. He loved horses and spent several years developing his horse ranch and giving his children the opportunity to enjoy the open spaces. We will always remember his talent for cooking which he lovingly shared with family and friends at every opportunity. He showed his love for his family through continuous and generous service.
Jay is survived by his wife, Lisbeth, and four children: Skoby (Annie) Downs, Heber; Trevor (Krissy) Downs, Portland, OR; Blake (Beth) Downs, Hyrum; Darcy (Sam) Haas, Midway; and 18 grandchildren. He is also survived by his four siblings, Carla (Marvin) Francis; Marilyn (Fred) Glauser; Donna (Kevin) Rasmussen; and Mark (Susan) Downs.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2014 at the Deer Creek LDS Chapel, 1060 S. Center Street, Midway at 12:00 p.m. There will be a viewing starting at 10:30 a.m. prior to the services. There will also be a viewing/reception at the Probst Family Funeral Home (79 E. Main St., Midway) on Friday from 6-8 p.m. Interment at Midway Cemetery (500 S. 700 W.) immediately following services. In lieu of flowers you may wish to donate to cancer research or other worthy cause.