Justin Downes, 61, of Woodlawn, passed away Thursday, September 21, 2023.Justin was born October 24, 1961, the son of Leroy Downes and Wilma V. (Flanagan) Downes.Justin is survived by his brother Rod Downes and wife Anita of Woodlawn, one nephew: Andy Downes and wife Kelly of Woodlawn, one niece: Sara Sheridan and husband Deric of Dix, and several great nieces and nephews.Justin was preceded in death by his father and mother: Leroy and Wilma Downes.Justin attended Woodlawn Grade School and graduated from Woodlawn High School in 1979. After high school, he worked for Mammoth Store from 1979 until 1987. On December 3, 1987, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served during the Gulf War/Desert Storm. In the military, he served as a USAF Logistics and Inventory Management Specialist. He achieved the rank of sergeant before he was discharged on December 2, 1991. After being discharged for his service, Mr. Downes worked at the former JC Penny Store in Mt. Vernon, as a Department Supervisor. Mr. Downes was a member of the American Humanist Association.A Graveside Service for Justin Downes will be held on Friday, October 6, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the Mt. Catherine Christian Church Cemetery in Woodlawn with Military Honors to follow. The Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home and Cremation Service at 235 N. Sycamore Street, Centralia, IL 62801 is honored to be of service to the Downes family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Funeral Home’s Facebook page.
