James Downing

James "Jim" Jerry Downing Age 92, passed away peacefully with family at his bedside. Born on March 9th, 1934, in Ashland, Kentucky, Jim lived a full and meaningful life, defined by dedication to family service to others and a deep love of learning. As a child, Jim experienced frequent moves due to his father's work as a metallurgical engineer. He often remarked that he attended three different 6 grade classes in a single year. Jim graduated from Braddock High School in Pennsylvania and went on to attend The Ohio State University. Where he majored in political science and became a devoted Buckeye fan. He participated in ROTC and later served in the United States. Army, where he was stationed at Fort Sam Houston and trained as a medic. His professional career was distinguished by leadership in labor and employee relations. Jim served as Vice President of Employee Relations at the Joseph Horne Company, Labor Relations Manager for the Port Authority of Allegheny County and later for Cuyahoga County. A man of faith Jim was active and devoted church member throughout his life. He loved attending the Pittsburgh Pirate baseball games with his children and grandchildren and never missing the Steeler games on Sunday afternoons, Jim was a voracious reader with a particular fondness for authors such as Tom Clancy and Herman Wouk. He also enjoyed films, often rewatching Band of Brothers and The Godfather trilogy. Playing cards was a favorite activity, games such as Euchre, Hearts and Garbage. He liked dining out with family and friends. Whether at The Harp in Cleveland or a casual meal at Chilies or Panera. He had a well-known sweet tooth, especially for ice cream and was a frequent visitor to Honey Hut in Cleveland Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Diana (Pieczynski). He was predeceased in death by his first wife, Carol Fretz. He leaves behind his children Susan Tatich (Bob Zanetti), Tim Downing (Ken Press), Bill Downing, Matt Downing (Linda Downing) and Anna Downing. He is also survived by his grandchildren Amanda Fedderson (Luke Fedderson), Michael Tatich (Sean Trout), Ryan, Megan, Jake, Jessica, great-grandchildren, Andrew, Braden, and Carsten as well as brothers and sisters in-law, many nieces and nephews and dear friends in Virginia and Ohio. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at the Southwestern Veterans Center, especially the nurses and aides of 3 North who surrounded Jim with love, dignity and care. A memorial service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, North Hills, Pittsburgh PA at 11am, Saturday July 25, 2026. Luncheon to follow at Sieb's Pub 3382 Babcock Blvd. Pittsburgh Pa 15237 Donations: 1. Make check/money order payable to: SWVC Residents' Welfare Fund Mail to Southwestern Veterans' Center 7060 Highland Drive Pittsburgh PA 15206 2. Or this website www.pa.gov/dmva/donate and choose Southwestern Veterans Center Welfare Fund Professional services trusted to D'ALESSANDRO FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY LTD., Lawrenceville. www.dalessandroltd.com.

James Downing

March 9, 1934 - May 13, 2026