Jay B Downs, 74, of Big Piney, died in a tragic accident on his ranch Oct. 5. Jay was born in Shelley, Idaho on March 15, 1949.
Jay has one younger brother, Robert, and two younger sisters, Vickey and Cheryl. All four children were placed for adoption. Jay and his brother “Bob” were adopted by Jack and Helen Downs of Douglas, Wyo., in 1954, and his sisters to another family. Jay was raised on a cattle ranch just outside of Douglas on Lightning Creek and graduated from Douglas High School in 1967.
He attended dental school in Omaha, Neb., for a short time to become a dentist, but realized it was not for him. Jay was then drafted into the Army to serve in the Vietnam War. There he served two tours, spending a year and a half as a combat sergeant. Upon his return home he was approached by an Army general who offered him a full ride scholarship to West Point for his high test scores and achievements. He declined and returned to the ranch in Douglas.
Jay married Rebecca Sue Davis on Aug. 19, 1972. Jay worked in the oil and gas field for 17 years to assist with life on the ranch. In the fall of 1988, Jay and Rebecca purchased the Reservoir Ranch in Big Piney and made the move on Jan. 17, 1989.
Jay is preceded by parents, Jack and Helen Downs.
Jay is survived by his wife Rebecca, two children Jacque and John (Misty), brother Robert, sisters Vickey Wright and Cheryl Howe, and seven grand-girls, Tyler, Taliesen, Tori, Tacey, Lyrik, Tabitha and Trinity. He was blessed to have many nieces and nephews that adored him as well.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Shriner’s Hospital in his name.
A funeral service will be held at the Southwest Sublette County Pioneers Senior Center on Saturday, Oct. 21, at 11 a.m., with a light meal to follow.
