Obituaries

James J. Downey, age 84, of Cold Spring, Kentucky, passed away peacefully, Thursday, February 4, 2026, surrounded by family. He was the beloved husband of the late Brenda Downey, with whom he shared 64 years of marriage.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, George Downey and Gertrude Dyer; his wife, Brenda; and his brothers, Jack Downey and Richard Downey. He is survived by his brothers, Ronald Dyer and Paul Dyer.

Jim is also survived by his and Brenda’s two daughters, Sheila Maraan (Michael) and Susan Cole (Scott); his grandchildren, Sarah Dinger (Dustin), née Maraan; Daniel Cole (Samantha); Michelle Maraan; and Kelly Schaeper (Kent), née Cole; and his great-grandchildren, Zoey Dinger, Benjamin Schaeper, and Josephine Cole.

Known for his strong work ethic, Jim found his greatest joy in time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He often shared coloring books with them, affectionately referring to it as his “therapy time.” Jim was also an avid baseball fan and a devoted supporter of the Cincinnati Reds, a passion that led him to build an extensive collection of baseball cards and memorabilia.

Jim was a man of faith, and his family takes comfort in knowing that he has been welcomed into eternal peace and joy, reunited with his beloved Brenda in the presence of the Lord.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 AM Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Cold Spring, where visitation will be held from 10-11 AM. Entombment at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens.