Douglas Eli Downing

Douglas Eli Downing, 73, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. A lifelong resident of West Nashville, Doug was born on October 10, 1951, to William Isaac and Margaret Ashburn Downing. He graduated from Cohn High School. In his earlier days, he enjoyed playing baseball. After working on the railroad for years, Doug stepped into the role of full-time caregiver to his son, Brad. Doug enjoyed playing softball and fishing. He also liked bowling with his wife and coaching his kids and grandkids in their sports. Doug made an effort to be at all of his kids’ sporting events.

Doug was preceded in death by his father, William Isaac Downing; and brothers, Joe and Willie Downing.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sharon Downing; children, Ricky Downing, Tracey Downing, and Brad Downing; grandchildren, Matthew (Tiffany) Plunk, Jessica (Conner) Wix, and Karlee Downing; great-grandchildren, Olivia and Maddox Plunk, Lexi and Addy Smith, and Eli and Fallon Wix; mother, Margaret Downing; sisters, Eloise Williams and Brenda Williams; numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of extended family members and beloved friends.

The family will receive friends on Monday, May 12, 2025, at West Harpeth Funeral Home from 4:00PM until 7:00PM. Additional visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 11:00AM until 1:00PM at the Funeral Home. A Celebration of Doug’s Life will begin at 1:00PM in the Chapel at West Harpeth. Following the service, Doug will be laid to rest in the Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens.