James W. Downs

James W. Downs, 89, of Litchfield, CT, passed away February 11, 2025, at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Arlene (Belasco) Downs for 66 years.

Jim was born June 10, 1935, in Torrington, CT, the son of the late Edward and Marion (O’Connor) Downs. He was an Accountant, serving as Treasurer of Northern Heating Supply in Newington CT for many years, and then was employed by Toce Brothers for the last 20 years of his career, until his retirement at age 62.

Jim was a lifelong member of B.P.O.E. #372 in Torrington, a member of Seneca Lodge #55 A.F.&A.M., a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite-Valley of Waterbury, the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite-Bridgeport, Lafayette Consistory S.P.R.S. 32nd degree. He was a member of the Sphinx Temple A.A.O.N.M.S. of Hartford, where he served as jurisdictional representative for Litchfield County, and a member of Zem Zem Shrine Club of Litchfield County, where he served as Treasurer Emeritus and Auditor. He was a lifelong Yankee fan, and bowled in the Merchant's League at Sky-Top Lanes, as well as the duckpin league at the Elks Lodge in Torrington. Jim was an avid fan of UCONN Men's and Women's basketball, and after his retirement enjoyed playing lots of golf. His greatest joy however, was spending time with family during holidays and special occasions, and he enjoyed the most happiness spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, James E. Downs and his wife Karen of Torrington, Robert Garafalo (Wendy) of Carlsbad, CA; two daughters, Denee Longley (Russ) of Litchfield, CT, Keri Hoffer (John) of New Preston, CT; one brother, Robert Downs and his wife Marlene of Torrington, CT; eight grandchildren, five great grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister, Marion Garafolo.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at noon at Cook Funeral Home, 82 Litchfield St., Torrington, CT. Relatives and friends may call on Saturday morning from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service. Burial will follow at Hillside Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital (shrinerschildrens.org)