Lewis Jeffery ‘Jeff’ Downey

Lewis Jeffery ‘Jeff’ Downey, aged 76, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 9th, 2024, after a battle with dementia. Born on December 17, 1947, in Gonzales, TX, to Joseph Downey and Patsy Jo Allen Downey, Jeff graduated from Gonzales High School in 1967. It was in Gonzales where he met Brenda English, whom he married on December 21, 1969, at the First Baptist Church of Gonzales. They shared 54 years of marriage and had two daughters, Shanna and Heather.

Jeff began working for the General Telephone Company during the summers at the age of 16. In 1968, he joined the navy and served on the USS Berkeley missile destroyer until 1970, including during the Vietnam Conflict. He completed 2 years of active duty and 4 years in the reserves. After his navy service, Jeff resumed his career at the telephone company, where he dedicated 37 years. Post-retirement, Jeff remained active by working at the Gonzales County Sheriff's Department as a jailer, and later at VES and the Gonzales Livestock Market.

Jeff had numerous hobbies and was always busy. He was very involved in 4H and FFA with his daughters and served as a director on the Gonzales County Stock Show Board and as a 4H adult leader. He raised show pigs, and both his daughters and grandchildren participated in showing them. Jeff and Brenda were hosts of the Annual Bop n’ Bash for 25 years, where his portrayal of the Big Bopper was a highlight. As a member of the Oil City A’s Car Club, Jeff took pride in owning many classic cars. He also enjoyed collecting coins, attending Barrett-Jackson auctions, and swap meets. Saturday mornings often found him at the sale barn, actively engaging in his community. He spent most of his evenings out in the country—a place dear to him, filled with memories of his father, whom he lost at a young age. Known for his knack with animals, Jeff often brought home various creatures, including raccoons, deer, and even a skunk. He cherished taking his family on road trips to national parks, exploring the beauty of the U.S.

Jeff was a simple, nature-loving man who enjoyed the outdoors with a cold beer in hand. He was always busy with a project or task and found great joy in checking on his cattle and savoring the tranquility of his property. His grandchildren were a source of great happiness, and he loved making them laugh. Jeff will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jeff is survived by his wife Brenda and two daughters Shanna (Wayne) Heiman and Heather (J.D.) Shelton, grandchildren Halea (Zac Singleton) Heiman, Garrett Heiman, Barrett, Tawni and Marli Shelton, One great-grandchild, Bristol ‘Bo’ Whitehead. Two brothers, Steven Downey and Joseph Downey and sister Debbie Opiela. 

He is preceded in death by both parents and his brother-in-law, Clarence Opiela. 

The family will receive visitors from 12-2 pm on Thursday, July 11^th at Seydler Hill Funeral Home in Gonzales, Texas. A Memorial Service will follow at 2pm. Honorary pallbearers: Leroy Polasek, Ronald Baker, Eli Cheatham, Adam Downey, Dennis Droupy, Jace Opiela, and Gary Zella. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Jeff’s memory to the Dornburg Center of Compassion, 1005 Mallette Dr, Victoria, TX 77904, who graciously took care of Jeff in his final days.  Friends may leave their condolences to the family by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com.

Services are under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home.