Richard Russell Downing was born to the late Mr. William H. Downing Sr and Evana D. Downing on May 22, 1946, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Both parents, preceded him in death.

Richard received his formal education at Crispus Attucks High School in Indianapolis, Indiana. 

He worked at UPS and Star & News and retired from Star & News. Richard loved to cook, read and watch sports, read books Comics and Reader’s Digest. He was known to pass books along to his siblings, and shop for bargains. He loved his family and was very protective of his sisters. Richard served three years active duty in the U.S. Army.

Richard Russell Downing departed his earthly life and received his eternal life on Friday, December 13, 2024, at the age of seventy-eight years of age. He was predeceased by four siblings, William H. Downing Jr; Charles E. Downing; Janet K. Downing-McGowan and Vera M. Bronaugh.

He leaves to cherish his memories, two children, son, Darrell Downing of Las Vegas; Nevada; daughter, Dr. Nicole Rowan (James) of  Henderson, Tennessee; two grandchildren, Sema’j Rowan and Senai Rowan; both of Henderson, Tennessee.; five siblings: one brother, Steve Downing Sr (Doris); four sisters, Maggie Patricia Robinson, Anita Downing-Overton, Karen Lynn Sharp (Eric) and Joyce Downing all of Indianapolis, Indiana; seven nieces: Vivian Downing-Clay; Rakale Modisette; Angela Overton, Tiffany Downing, Jasmine Harris all of Indianapolis, Indiana, Valerie Bronaugh of Detroit, Michigan and Yolanda V. Sharp of McDonough, Georgia; eight nephews: William H. Downing III, Richard M. Downing, Steve Downing Jr., Warren Robinson, Tony Shelton Jr., Thomas Tyson all of Indianapolis, Indiana, Xavier Bronaugh of Detroit, Michigan, and  J’Mont Tibbs of Atlanta; Georgia.