Jack F. Downey, 95 of Greenwood, Indiana passed away on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Born one month after the beginning of the Great Depression on November 29, 1929 in New Palestine, Indiana to Claude and Martha (Harrison) Downey, he grew up in Johnson and Shelby counties. During his high school years, Jack picked up bowling where he met Lois Cortelyou at the Shelbyville bowling alley.

Enjoying their time together, Jack finished Fairland High School and went to work at the railroad yard in Beech Grove. Jack and Lois were married in 1949, one that lasted almost 50 years. Jack started working at Western Electric that year, only months before he was drafted. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War, but because of his typing class, was sent to Germany to serve.

After his military service, Jack returned to Western Electric in Indianapolis restarting his 36 year career there. During that time, he completed his management degree from Purdue University. Starting as a line Supervisor, he retired as a labor negotiator when the plant closed in 1985.

Jack was always busy serving at his church, Franklin Central Christian Church. His family moved there in 1969, while he served as Elder, Secretary, and Treasurer. He was also active serving as a District Commissioner for the Boy Scouts of America. Jack was a member of the Telephone Pioneers; Shelby Masonic Lodge No. 28, F & A M, Indianapolis Valley of Scottish Rite and the Naamah Chapter, Order of Eastern Star. He was also a member of the Eagles Lodge No. 766 and a member of WFYI.

His greatest joy in life was his family. Jack is survived by children, Mark Downey, Kevin (Barbara) Downey Carol (Tom) Kiraly, Jacquie Downey and Kim (Bob) Moore of New Whiteland; his thirteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. He was preceded in passing by his parents, his wife, Lois; his son, Eric Downey and his daughter-in-law, Susan Downey.

Pastor Rick Harting will conduct a celebration of Jack’s life on Thursday, May 1st at 1:00 p.m. at Franklin Central Christian Church, 4100 S. Franklin, Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46239 with visitation on Thursday, May 1st from 11:00 a.m. to time of service at 1:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will be at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens in Greenwood, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Franklin Central Christian Church, 4100 S. Franklin Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46239.

Expressions of caring and kindness may be received to the family at www.flinnmaguire.net