Obituary of John Max Downs

John Max Downs, 83, formerly of Bryson City went home to be with the Lord March 30, 2013 at his residence in Jonesboro, TN. A native of Swain County, he had been a resident of TN for most of his adult life. He was the son of the late Tommy and Winnie Howard Downs. He also was preceded in death by four brothers, Van, Gerald, Harrison, and Leroy Downs; and two sisters, Willie Maude Skidmore and Inez Lewis. John was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served in the Korean War. He was married to Stella Christian Downs of Jonesboro, TN. He is survived by three children, Jerry Downs of Vesuvius, VA, Wayne Downs and wife Teresa of Fairfield, VA, Gail Slayton and husband Ted of Glasgow, VA; five grandchildren; four sisters, Clara Camp (Wayne) of Hendersonville, Mickey Donathan of Arden, Kathy Chapman (Roger) of Skyland, Pansie Huffstedtler of Fletcher; two brothers, Gene Downs (Beth) of Newborn, GA, Kelly Downs (Mary Ann) of Stuarts Draft, VA; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Midway Baptist Church. Rev. Mark Sale will officiate with burial in the Roundhill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday at the church. Crisp Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.