Thursday, February 15, 2018 8:14 am

Charles Richard Downey, age 81, of Rutherfordton, passed away February 3, 2018.

He was born September 27, 1936 to Charles Edward and Bertha Strickland Downey in Portsmouth, Ohio. He served in the US Air Force, was a retired union carpenter and a member of the Rutherford Church of Christ. Charles enjoyed many hobbies through the years including remodeling and selling houses, being a soccer and baseball coach, building projects at his home, he also enjoyed success with drag racing and loved camping. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Donna Downey Rawlins, and a daughter, Jane Downey Leaver.

Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Donna L. Downey, sons, Charles "Chuck" Downey and wife Stephanie and Darrin Downey, and six grandchildren, and a granddog, Sadie.

A memorial service was held in the Rutherford Church of Christ, Rutherfordton. Minister Jim Hobbs officiated. Interment will be held at a later date in Ohio. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, PO Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043.

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.