John Dewey Downey

February 18, 1950 - July 3, 2016

John Dewey Downey, age 66, of Fair Play, MO, passed away Sunday, July 3, 2016 in his home. He was born February 18, 1950, in Crossett, AR, to John and Winnie (High) Downey Sr. He was an avid outdoorsman, professional dog show handler and photographer. You could not win with John “Buddy” in a battle of wits. He was always willing to help those who would help themselves. He will be greatly missed by his wife, family and close friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his three sisters; Margaret Edwards, Pat Mattox, and Mary Taylor. He is survived by his wife, Diane Larson-Downey, his children; Jeff Downey, Arcola, MO,
Kristen Parker, Branson, MO. three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Two sisters; Dot Jordan, Leesburg, FL and Peggy Ann Wolf, Omaha, AR.
Memorial services will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 13, 2016. at Greenlawn Funeral Home North. In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the doner’s choice. Services have been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home North, Springfield, MO. Online condolences may be made at www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com.

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A good man, a kind man, a pro’s pro. Will miss you Buddy. R.I.P., my friend.

The best dog shows were the ones where Buddy was taking pictures. His sharp sense of humor and dry wit always made those long and boring dog show weekends fun. That, plus I loved watching him take photos. He could get the most obstinate dog to settle for that fraction of a second when he pressed the shutter, making his difficult job look easy. Who knew his middle name was Dewey? The photo here is how I will remember him, with his sly smile and holding a fish he swears is two feet long. RIP Buddy. You are gone but will never be forgotten.

Diane, May God give you and the family comfort and peace. Buddy will certainly be missed by everyone.

Diane Chuck and I always knew we would be successful at shows if Buddy was the photographer. They were not only good friends but friendly competitors. Someplace they are still taking great pictures and showing beagles and having a joke or two. May they RIP

Jeff I am so sorry. We have memories dating way back into my childhood. We all started as friends and became very close friends. I enjoyed the time we all shared at a video store/bar on the westside of springfield. I looked forwarded to every weekend to go hang out with you all and our fathers sitting there talking. To me and always be your family like a brother to me. Your father was like another brother. taught me some bad things along the way and enjoyed the fishing stories that would go on for hours….Jeff if you need anything please call me 417-496-9886….R.I.P. Buddy

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Diane — So sorry to hear of Buddy’s passing. He was in icon in Dog Show Photographers and will be missed by many. He always had a comment and a twinkle in his eye……. R.I.P.

What a treasure, Buddy! So saddened by his loss to all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

I was so sorry to hear of Buddy’s passing. Dog shows will not be the same without him. My sympathies to Diane and to his children. A donation will be made to Take The Lead in Buddy’s name.

Very sorry to hear of Buddy’s passing. He was a fixture at dog shows since I began going to them. He always had a quip and kept things fun. Rest well, we will miss you.

So very sorry. John was a big part of helping us get started in the sport of dogs, which we have enjoyed for the past 34 years. We always liked seeing him at the shows. He will be missed.

Dear Diane, I am so sorry to hear that Buddy passed away but he is at home smiling down at us (with a BIG FISH). He was one in a million. I could always count on him to make me laugh. The dog show world has lost a great person. Thinking of you and your family. Prayers that your loving memories of John will be of comfort now and in the future. God Bless you all.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.

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