Terry James Downey

Terry passed away peacefully on December 16, 2023, at the age of 72, at home in Woodstock, Ontario.  Terry's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, family, and hard work.

Terry's journey began in Woodstock, where he was born to Earl and Shirley Downey. He grew up surrounded by his siblings, forming bonds that would last a lifetime. Terry's heart found its match in Joan, his beloved wife of 53 years, and together they built a family that was his pride and joy. He was a devoted dad to Terri Jo Shaw (Gord) and Gary Downey, and his legacy continued to grow with his grandchildren Cory Anderson (Adrienne), Kyle Anderson (Ashley), Dakota Downey-Wood, Chris Shaw, and Terri-Lynn Hughes (Darryl Barnes). Terry was also a doting great-grandfather to Rory, Evalyn, Kayson, Liam, and Logan.

His siblings, Bonnie Nichols (Larry), Sharon Rowe, Teresa Knox (George), and Darlene Roberson, will remember Terry with fondness, as will his sister-in-law, Dorothy Downey.  He was predeceased by his grandson Nathan Anderson,  brother Ted Downey,  sister Roseanne Downey, and his parents. Terry's memory will live on through the many nieces, nephews, and cousins who were touched by his generous spirit.

Terry's career as a long-haul truck driver was marked by the call sign "Gilligan," a nod to his sense of humor and camaraderie on the road. He spent many years behind the wheel for Laidlaw, earning the respect and friendship of his colleagues until his well-deserved retirement.

Away from the rigors of the road, Terry was a man of many interests. His hands were rarely still, as he found joy in woodworking, creating cherished pieces for his grandchildren. Travel was another passion, and together with Joan, he explored new places, with a particular fondness for South Carolina, where he could indulge in his love for fresh oysters. At home, he was known for his sweet tooth and his love for a good plate of fish and chips.

Friends will be received on Friday, December 22 from 12 – 1pm at the Brock and Visser Funeral Home, 845 Devonshire Ave, Woodstock.  Memorial Service will follow at 1pm in the funeral home chapel.  For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Diabetes Association or to Parkinson Canada.