Downer, Oscar Hope

Oscar Hope “Jim” Downer passed away peacefully at his home in Bloomfield, CT on August 7, 2021. He was 95 years old.

Jim was born in Mount Zion, St. James, Jamaica on June 14, 1926, to Olga Pearl (Mcennis) Sterling and Stanford Downer. Oscar attended Mt. Zion Primary School and in 1944, at age 17, enlisted in the British Royal Air Force. He served as a motor transport operator in England during World War II. After the war, Jim emigrated to the United States and first settled in Hartford, then planted his roots in Bloomfield, CT. He worked for Dunham Bush as a commercial welder and served as a union representative. He was a proud founding member of the West Indian Social Club. He

married his loving wife, Susie Mills of Virginia, in 1957 and they spent 60 wonderful years together.

Jim will always be remembered for his sense of humor, entertaining stories, and big personality. He was an outgoing people person who loved gardening and spending time with family and friends. He was a competitive domino and pool player. In his earlier days, he played cricket throughout the United States and Canada. He enjoyed following current events and read two newspapers daily until his passing.

Jim is survived by his children, Carl Downer, Carol Downer Weller, Collin Downer, Orville Downer, Courtney Downer and Michelle Downer-rose. His brother Sidney “Sid” Downer. His grandchildren, Janice, Victor, Lajuan, Ian, Shannon, Ronald, Nikki, Eric, Beth, Tonya, Tommy, Chante, Sarah, Sydney, Maya, Collin Jr., and Lorinda. Along with a host of nieces, nephews, many great-grands and great, great-grandchildren who have brought joy to his life over the years. His memory will be cherished and kept alive always.

Jim was predeceased by Mrs. Susie Downer, loving wife and stepmother. His son Owen Downer and daughterin law, Dawn Downer. His sister, Millicent Downer Meredith as well as a granddaughter, Codie Elizabeth Downer.

A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, August 27, 2021, at 11:00AM at Pilgrim Way Church, 638 W. Wolcott Ave., Windsor, CT 06095; visitation from 10:00AM – 11:00AM. Interment will be held at Mountainview Cemetery, 30 Mountain Ave., Bloomfield, CT 06002. To read the full obituary and view the livestreamed services please visit, www.hkhfuneralservices.com.