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Celebrating the life of
Stephen Brendan Downing
October 15, 1975 - March 17, 2025

Stephen "Steve" Downing passed away in Savannah on March 17th after a short illness, surrounded by his Family.
Steve was born in Miami, Florida in 1975, to Rosemary (Emerick) Downing and Brendan James Downing. Steve was raised in Savannah, GA and attended St James Catholic School. He attended High School at Benedictine Military School (c/o '95), where he was a 4 year Letterman on the BC Football Team, 4 Year JROTC Officer and Secretary of the Student Body his Senior Year. After graduating High School, Steve attended Armstrong College. After Armstrong, Steve held multiple positions over the years to include Golf Course Grounds Management, Retail Stocking, Grocery and Warehouse Management Roles.
Steve was a Member of the Savannah Jaycees, Catholic Singles and attended the Savannah Quarterback Club.
Steve was a huge dog lover, an avid sports fan, particularly University of Georgia Football, PGA Golf and College Basketball. He never met a stranger, always greeted everyone with a smile and would give you the shirt off his back. Steve loved nothing more than being with Friends, watching and talking sports, attending an oyster roast with a cold beverage, walking in the St Patrick's Day Parade each year or spending time in Hilton Head at the Annual Downing Family Gathering.
Steve is survived by his Mother Rosemary Downing, Brother Pat Downing (Katie) and Aunt Carolyn L Emerick, all current residents of Savannah, GA. His Uncle Bruce Downing (Donna) of Winchester, VA, his Aunt Carroll Downing (Brian deceased) of Mount Laurel, New Jersey and cousins Edward Downing (Amanda) of Roanoke, VA, and their son Gus, Christopher Downing (Wilma) of Charlotte, NC, and their sons Brendan and Connor and Kevin Downing (Denise) of Mount Laurel, New Jersey and their daughters Erin and Caitlin. He is also survived by numerous other cousins in Savannah. Steve is preceded in death by his Father Brendan James Downing, Grandparents Frank and Nell Fitzgerald Emerick and Col. Robert and Margaret Downing, his Cousin John Patrick Downing and his Uncle, Brian Thomas Downing.
Steve's legacy will be remembered through the many people's lives he enriched by his genuine kindness and his presence. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the Family has asked for donations to the Humane Society or Benedictine Military School.
Steve was a cornerstone of the BC Class of 1995—we all have a Stevie story that ended with his big smile no matter what. Our prayers are with the Downing family.
- TJ Hollis, Savannah, Georgia
I had the pleasure of knowing Steve for 30 years. He was never without a smile on his face and always had a hug to go with it. My condolences to your whole family.
- Christina Black, Savannah, GA
I got to know Stevie at BC as we were in the same graduating class. He was a joy through and through. He will be missed and I am grateful to be one who knew him. Rest Easy, my friend. With Love and Respect, BJ Ganem
- BJ Ganem, Reedsburg , WI
I was lucky, Steve was in my life through grade school and high school (BC '95) and as adults. His smile and hug would light up a room and we are all better people because of Steve. He was positive and thoughtful and made me laugh and smile every time I saw him. May he rest in peace and hope that his family finds comfort in the fact that his memory is a blessing to all of us.
- Tim Blanco, Savannah, GA
We are so sad to learn of Stephen’s passing. I taught him in second grade. He was always kind and loving. When I would see Stephen at his place of work, he’d always have an “ I’m delighted to see you “ smile. The world has lost a kind soul who will always have a special place in our hearts. Prayers for the repose of Stephen’s soul and for the comfort of his family.
- Linda Lee and Michael Brown, Savannah , Georgia
My deepest condolences to Steve's family and friends. He was a great guy always thoughtful and kind with a smile. I remember him from BC and always a joy to run into him through the years. Blessed to have known him.
- Michael McCormick, Savannah, Georgia
Our thoughts & prayers are with you, Rosemary & Pat & family.. Steven will be missed.. May God comfort each of you..
- The Prewitt Family , Savannah, GEORGIA
Pat, I am so sorry for the loss of your brother. I can’t imagine St. Pat’s will ever be the same without him walking and smiling in the parade. He was also so kind and sweet. I pray for you and your mom and your entire family that you will find peace knowing he is looking down on you from up above! Sending all my love!
- Jen and Bubba Green, Savannah, Ga
We were so sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
- Chad and Gifty Morton, Pooler, GA
I have many fond memories of Steve from St. James and BC. From playing baseball together to attending an REM concert together (thanks again for taking us Mrs. Downey!) I can only smile when I think about Steve. A number of us connected on text when we heard the news and the theme was just that - Steve treated everyone like a close friend and all interactions ended with a laugh. Steve was taken too soon but we should all hope to leave the legacy that Steve left. Thoughts and prayers to Mrs. Downey, Pat and all of the family.
- David Miller, Arlington, VA
Steve will always be a local legend. He was always happy to see you and a friend to all. Steve is one of those people who made Savannah what it is. I’ll always remember Steve with a warm smile
- Sam Herman, Alpharetta, GA

I first met Steve in the 8th grade at SJS, and from the very beginning, he was always cheerful, with a smile that could light up a room. No matter how many years passed, every time I saw him, he still had that same warmth and ability to bring a smile to my face. He will be deeply missed.
- Michelle Ortiz, Savannah, GA
How we hated when our daughter Awbrey shared the sad news of Stephen 's passing. He was always a brightly smiling part of the halls at St. James School. We would run into him occasionally and he continued to always be polite and ready to share that great grin. We are so sad for his entire family and all who knew him.
- Melissa and Ben Wells, Savannah, GA
I had the absolute blessing of having Steve be apart of my life for the last 20 years. What a guy. Never without a smile and always ready for a good time! What started as a work relationship blossomed into much much more. My condolences to all of his family. I love you big guy!
- Brandon Buck and family, Savannah, Georgia
We always enjoyed having Steve at our Georgia football parties and Oyster Roasts. He always had a smile on his face, and will be remembered for his kindness and constantly asking… so, How you doing? We Love you Steve, and we will miss you very much. Prayers going out to all of Steve’s family and friends. Mark and Stacey Burgess
- Mark and Stacey Burgess, Savannah, Ga
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Visitation
- 5:00 PM until 7:30 PM on Sun, March 23, 2025
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
-
7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive (map)
Savannah GA 31406 - 912-352-7200
- Memorial Mass
- 11:00 AM on Mon, March 24, 2025
- St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church
-
(map)
- Interment of Ashes
- 1:00 PM on Mon, March 24, 2025
- Bonaventure Cemetery
-
330 Bonaventure Road (map)
Savannah GA 31404 - 912-651-6843