Claude J. "Rusty" Downs

Claude J. “Rusty” Downs, 65, of Columbia passed away on December 23, 2018 surrounded by his loving family and friends.The memorial service will be held on Wednesday January 2, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel of Temples Halloran Funeral Home, 5400 Bush River Road Columbia, S.C. 29212 and will be officiated by Dr. Ryan Pack.The family will receive friends from 2:00-3:00 p.m. prior to the memorial service. Born in Columbia on May 25, 1953, Rusty was the son of the late Jouett Francis Downs and Sarah Adelaide Brown Downs.Mr. Downs graduated from the old Columbia High School and was a lifelong member of Park Street Baptist Church.After many years of dedicated service Rusty retired from the U.S. Postal Service. Additionally, Rusty proudly served his country in the United States Navy.Rusty was a very loving father, grandfather, brother, and uncle.He will be remembered for his heart of gold and acts of service for his family, friends, and neighbors.Rusty will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Survivors include Rusty’s father, Mr. John Guy of Columbia; a daughter, Meggan Arnold (Johnathan); three sons, Justin Ruffin (Alma), Matthew Downs (fiancé Adrianna), and Andrew Downs all of Irmo; a sister, Connie Downs White (Gary) of Columbia, three nephews, Marty, Guy, and David White; a great nephew, Zachary White; and ten grandchildren.Rusty was preceded in death by his parents. In lieu of flowers, memorials for Rusty Downs may be made to Agape Hospice House 141 Stoneridge Drive Columbia, S.C. 29210 or the American Cancer Society 200 Center Point Circle Suite 100 Columbia, S.C. 29210.