Willard Phelps Downs, age 88, of Leitchfield, KY, passed away Monday, (January 20, 2025) at his home.
He was born on January 22, 1936 in Grayson County, KY, the son of the late Michael and Mary Ada Lashley Downs.
He was the owner and operator of Parkland Gulf/ BP for 39 years and enjoyed playing golf and watching all sports, especially when the University of Louisville was playing. Willard was a member of the Clarkson Baptist Church.
He is survived by his son, Ricky Downs (Joyce) of Louisville, KY; a daughter, Wanda Gay Meredith (Gary) of Anneta, KY; two grandchildren, Michael Downs (Allison) of Georgetown, IN & Whitney Meese (Jordan) of Mt. Washington, KY; four great-grandchildren, Bricyn & Jazlyn Meese, and Lilyan & Emerson Downs; a brother, Bobby Downs, of Paoli, IN; and a loving friend, Brady Kerr of Leitchfield. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of almost 59 years, Jerlene Wood Downs; a sister, Marie Downs Gibson; and an infant brother, Mural Thomas Downs.
Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, (January 25, 2025) at the Dermitt Funeral Home in Leitchfield. Bro. Curtis Decker will be officiating. Burial will be in the Anneta United Baptist Church Cemetery.
Visitation will be at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 09:00 a.m. Saturday until time of services.
