Milford Downing

Milford Downing Jr. Bella Vista — Milford Downing Jr., 85, of Bella Vista died Friday May 25, 2012, at his home. He was born April 4, 1927, in Arcade, N.Y. the son of Mayme Eggert and Milford Downing. He proudly served the United States in the Navy during World War II, where he earned an Honorable Discharge. He enjoyed working crosswords and collecting coins. In his earlier life he enjoyed collecting model cars. He was a Protestant, and had lived in the Northwest Arkansas area since 1980 after moving from Toledo, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son; James Phillip Downing, and one grandson; James Tyler Downing. Milford is survived by his wife of 45 years, Lorraine Kittle Downing, whom he married May 28, 1966, one son; Michael Downing of Bella Vista, five daughters; Carol Gagliano and husband Gene of Buffalo, Wyo., Jeanne Diffenderfer and husband Ray of Olean, N.Y., Linda Bess of Olean, N.Y., Joanne Hitchcock, of Allegany, N.Y., Melissa Long and husband Jay, of Bella Vista, Ark., 17 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Memorials to: Bank of Gravett in his name, Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Road, Springdale, AR 72765 or The Bella Vista Animal Shelter, 32 Bella Vista Way, Bella Vista, AR 72714. Arrangements by Epting Funeral Home of Bella Vista. Condolences: www.eptingfuneralhome.webs.com