Celebrating the life of
Christopher McMillan Downing
Passed away on December 07, 2017
Christopher McMillan Downing died on December 7, 2017 of a heart attack while resting, in route from Mobile to Charleston for his next job assignment. Chris was born in Goldsboro, North Carolina at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, on April 4, 1976. Chris and his family returned to Savannah in 1980 after his father’s active duty military career. He spent most of his early childhood and adult life in Savannah. He was educated at Savannah Christian Preparatory School and received numerous technical certificates from Savannah Technical College including HVAC Technician, Integrated Circuit Repair and Computer Systems Technology. Chris was a veteran who spent seven years in the Georgia Air National Guard’s 117th Air Control Squadron where he was deployed to Italy in support of the Bosnian conflict and to United Arab Emirates in support of the Middle East conflict.
Chris had spent the last several years employed by Austal, USA, which is a major shipbuilder with facilities located in Mobile, AL and Australia. Chris worked on the US Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship program as a fitout tradesman and as a test and activation specialist. His last job was as a Post Delivery Service Engineer for the Navy’s Expeditionary Fast Transport program.
Chris had a lifetime love of music, and his lovable character, sharp wit and friendly disposition made him many true friends in both Savannah and Mobile. The outpouring of love and support from so many after his death shows the positive impact his short life had on so many. Christopher is survived by his parents, Cary and Carol Downing of Savannah, and his brother, Stephen Downing (April) of Savannah. He is also survived by his aunts, Carol Blaisdell of Savannah, Barbara McLaughlin (Leo) of Mt. Pleasant, SC, Rhonda Parham of Midway and his uncle, John Downing of Savannah. He is also survived by his beloved felines, Walter and Maceo.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, December 17, at 3:00 p.m. at Fox and Weeks Chapel on Hodgson Memorial Drive. Visitation will be from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
May the God of all comfort continued to strengthen the Downing family during these times of deep sorrow. God keeps those who have fallen asleep in death in His memory because they are precious in his eyes “Psalm 116:15” and “2 Corinthians 1:3”
- , ,
So sorry to hear of chris’s sudden passing. God be with you.
- Thomas&Bobbi Bevan, Bluffton , Sc
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. May you find comfort in God's promise that "Death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:4)
- Thomas, Snellville , GA
Mr. Cary and Ms. Carol and Steve, we are so sorry for the loss of Chris. I met Chris even before I met Stephen -- to know him is to love him for sure...and now Steve is like a member of our family. I remember a few months ago when Stephen was at our house and suddenly disappeared for 30-45 minutes. Everyone thought Steve did an "Irish Goodbye" but when he came back he said he had just been standing in our yard talking to his brother on the phone. So sweet. You raised two wonderful boys and our hearts are breaking for you. You are in our constant thoughts and prayers. Love, Sarah, Will, Wells and Campbell Forrester
- Sarah Forrester, Savannah, GA
Dear Cary and Carol, I’m so sorry to read about Chris I’m so sadden by this. I only knew him through the guards but what a joy he was. He was always smiling and so very nice. I’m so sad for the whole Downing family. He will truly be missed. I pray that his wonderful memories he left will help all of you through these difficult days, through what is suppose to be a joyous time of year, the months and years. Please know that your family have all my thoughts and prayers during this sad time. God now has a handsome guardian angel with a beautiful smile no one on earth will ever forget. With deepest sympathy, Nancy G. Floyd
- Nancy Floyd, Guyton, GA,
Cary & Carol, My heart is suffering shock and sadness at the reality of this totally unexpected news........though not near to the magnitude as the two of you, along with Stephen/April, that each of you MUST be dealing with! However for me, though we were cousins that didn't cross paths near as often as we'd like there to have been, it never mattered to Chris as he made you feel loved and appreciated as though we saw each other often. After the privilege Sunday of not only being a part of witnessing the incredible out pouring of love and support from so many that attended the Memorial Service......I am HONORED and PROUD to have been BLESSED to be connected to Chris via Carol by blood, and the whole family that had such genuine character on display yesterday! I pray God will heal your grief over time and comfort ALL of us to sustain us from the emptiness felt from Chris' too soon departure from this earth! See ya later in Heaven CUZ, David Parham
- David Parham, St. Cloud, FL
Carey & Family, My heart breaks for you and your entire family...please know you and all who knew & loved your son are in my prayers. May God grace you with some comfort & peace knowing that Chris is in his loving arms forever.
- Patty Daniels Miller, Atlanta , GA
Cary & Carol, I am so sorry for the loss of Christopher. I am very sorry I was not able to get to town yesterday but I will be in touch. My family and I have been thinking about y'all and praying for you.I spoke to my dear friend Chuck Miller who knows you and sends his thoughts to you also. God Bless,Stephen
- Stephen McMillan, Charleston, SC
Dear Cary, Carol and Family. I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my sincerest condolences.
- Jay Hall, Savannah, Georgia
We send our thoughts and prayers to the Downing family.
- Chad Little , Lansing , MI
Dear Stephen and Family, I was so sorry and sad to hear about Chris. Always a nice guy, good friend and he will be greatly missed. Stephen, you and April are in my thoughts.....
- Bailey, Savannah, GA
My condolences to you all. I had the privilege of working with Chris over the last few years. I considered Chris not only my coworker but my friend. He will be deeply missed.
- Dan Forget, Spanish Fort , Alabama
April, I am so sorry to read this tonight. You and your husband's family are in my thoughts and prayers. He accomplished so much in such a short life. So sad for you all. God bless.
- Teresa Lockett, Savannah, Ga.
My deepest condolences go to Chris’s family and friends. He was a very good friend to me when I lived in Savannah. RIP, sweet soul.
- MaryBeth Withers, Atlanta , Ga
I’ve known Chris as long as I can remember, ever since we were kids in grade school growing up on Skidaway Island, playing on the same neighborhood soccer team. He was only one grade younger than me and my friends but at the time we fancied ourselves SO much older. If I close my eyes now I can see him riding his dirt bike up my parent’s driveway and ditching it in the pine straw, most certainly bearing gifts of mixed tapes much to mine and my girl gang’s delight. Making and keeping friends was natural for Chris. Everyone he met was drawn to his infectious positive, affable and witty energy. I had the great fortune to remain friends with Chris over the years and even if I didn’t see him for a while our circles would collide again. There are only a handful of people that have captivated my attention for my entire life and Chris is one of them. I don’t think I could have had it any other way, he was just too unique and brought such a light to the world that will be missed by so many. To the Downing family, I hope you will find comfort and peace in knowing what an impression your son and brother made on everyone he met. He was impossible not to love and will be impossible to forget. Love, Alicia Klawin
- Alicia Klawin, Redondo Beach, California
We remember Chris fondly. It seems like only yesterday we were all watching the boys growing up and watching them play sports at Savannah Christian. Please know that our prayers are with you and your family. May all the joys and precious memories of Chris sustain you and give you peace. Pat and Ernie Keich
- Keich Family, Salisbury , NC
Dear Cary and family, Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your son/brother. May his soul rest in peace and may your memories bring you comfort. Amanda and Tommy Cannon
- , ,
Carol and Cary, I remember Chris from years ago and I am heart sick for all of your family. A terrible tragedy for such a fine young man with so much yet to give and enjoy. We must all share the love and joy of life everyday. I send you love and prayers to help with the grief you are experiencing. Lee Forbes
- Lee Forbes, Savannag, Ga.
I am so sorry about your son's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. With God's Love and Mine, Linda Lair Futrell
- Linda Futrell, Savannah, Ga
Chris was a great guy who I feel very blessed to have known and to call a friend. My prayers are with his family and loved ones.
- Rachel Reese Guerra , Newnan, GA
My dear Carol and Cary, my heart breaks for you and for Stephen. I am so very sorry for your loss of Chris. I know he was loved by so many people in Savannah, and I’m sure also in Mobile. He certainly had an impressive career, and I know y’all are so proud of him. My prayer for all of you is that your many wonderful memories will comfort and sustain you now and forever. Sending you all my love and sincere sympathy. I will keep each of you in my prayers. Much love, Jan
- Jan Daniel Crawford, Virginia Beach , Va.
I am and will forever be grateful for meeting Chris and having the honor of calling him my friend. I am so sorry for your loss...He was loved by everyone and we wiill miss him dearly. God Bless you all.
- John Meshad, Athens, GA
So saddened by this news. Chris was truely one of the kindest and most fun loving individuals I have ever known. My prayers and thoughts are with your family.
- Coleman Morris, Atlanta , GA
Peace with be you and your family.Protect us and be our guardian angel.You will never be forgotten and you surely will be missed.We love you.
- Shaylin, Savannah, Ga
What an amazing person I was so blessed to know. He always had a smile and a laugh for me and always made me feel so special. No one lit up a room like Chris. The world will miss his brightness and enthusiasm for everything he did. Thank you for bring an amazing friend to me. What a blast we had! Love you my dear friend.
- Jenifyr Bedard, Jupiter , FL
Our deepest condolences.
- Mike and Ginny O'Neill, Savannah, GA
Chris and I meet in Savannah.. the minute I meet him i never stop smiling while he was around. He once told me I was genius!! Chris was a sweet, loving, caring, hard working, talented, funny, and as he would say.. he was a genius.... thanks so much for having an impact on me and never giving up on me when I had hard times. And just being a great friend. You never judged and always continue to keep us al together!! I can’t wait to celebrate your life Wednesday night. With our amazing friends. I know you will be with us in spirit and I know I will continue keep you with me and the Spotify playlist we shared. Love you buddy... I’ll meet you on the other side.
- Tahnee bassett , Atlanta , Ga
We are so very sorry for your loss
- Benton, Savannah,
Dear Carol ~ Sending you & your family much Love & Sympathy ....So terribly sorry for your broken heart with the sudden loss of your son, Chris.
- Carol,Hammock Williamson , Savannah, Ga
Growing up on The Landings, it seemed like all the kids plyed together like a posse! I will always remember him as a happy go lucky, free spirited guy. It's hard to see my peers go young........... Eye opening.
- Carson, Savannah, Ga
I will miss you so much. A piece of my heart has broken off and gone away with you. You were an extremely special person in this world. Fly free. Play the guitar up there. And remember "Pennies From Heaven" for your Mom. ?
- Julie Pulliam, Tillamook, Oregon
I am one of Chris's friends from Savannah. He will be missed great very few people had a smile that brightens up your face the way his did and he was one of the funniest people I know. Lots of love and prayers for your family during this time.
- Andrea Bruner, Douglas , Wy
My heart felt condolences
- Adam Hodges , Savannah , Georgia
He accomplished a great deal in his short life! So sorry that he is no longer with us. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Downing family. God bless you all.
- Jonathan Melton, Charleston , SC
Cary and Carol I am so very sorry for your loss and the loss of a very dear friend. We shared a lot of laughs and I cherished our phone conversations after he moved to Mobile. Tammy and I will keep you in our prayers and may God bless and comfort you during this difficult time.
- Mike and Tammy Allard, Guyton, Ga
May the God of all comfort continued to strengthen the Downing family during these times of deep sorrow. God keeps those who have fallen asleep in death in His memory because they are precious in his eyes “Psalm 116:15” and “2 Corinthians 1:3”
- , ,
So sorry to hear of chris’s sudden passing. God be with you.
- Thomas&Bobbi Bevan, Bluffton , Sc
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. May you find comfort in God's promise that "Death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:4)
- Thomas, Snellville , GA
Mr. Cary and Ms. Carol and Steve, we are so sorry for the loss of Chris. I met Chris even before I met Stephen -- to know him is to love him for sure...and now Steve is like a member of our family. I remember a few months ago when Stephen was at our house and suddenly disappeared for 30-45 minutes. Everyone thought Steve did an "Irish Goodbye" but when he came back he said he had just been standing in our yard talking to his brother on the phone. So sweet. You raised two wonderful boys and our hearts are breaking for you. You are in our constant thoughts and prayers. Love, Sarah, Will, Wells and Campbell Forrester
- Sarah Forrester, Savannah, GA
Dear Cary and Carol, I’m so sorry to read about Chris I’m so sadden by this. I only knew him through the guards but what a joy he was. He was always smiling and so very nice. I’m so sad for the whole Downing family. He will truly be missed. I pray that his wonderful memories he left will help all of you through these difficult days, through what is suppose to be a joyous time of year, the months and years. Please know that your family have all my thoughts and prayers during this sad time. God now has a handsome guardian angel with a beautiful smile no one on earth will ever forget. With deepest sympathy, Nancy G. Floyd
- Nancy Floyd, Guyton, GA,
Cary & Carol, My heart is suffering shock and sadness at the reality of this totally unexpected news........though not near to the magnitude as the two of you, along with Stephen/April, that each of you MUST be dealing with! However for me, though we were cousins that didn't cross paths near as often as we'd like there to have been, it never mattered to Chris as he made you feel loved and appreciated as though we saw each other often. After the privilege Sunday of not only being a part of witnessing the incredible out pouring of love and support from so many that attended the Memorial Service......I am HONORED and PROUD to have been BLESSED to be connected to Chris via Carol by blood, and the whole family that had such genuine character on display yesterday! I pray God will heal your grief over time and comfort ALL of us to sustain us from the emptiness felt from Chris' too soon departure from this earth! See ya later in Heaven CUZ, David Parham
- David Parham, St. Cloud, FL
Carey & Family, My heart breaks for you and your entire family...please know you and all who knew & loved your son are in my prayers. May God grace you with some comfort & peace knowing that Chris is in his loving arms forever.
- Patty Daniels Miller, Atlanta , GA
Cary & Carol, I am so sorry for the loss of Christopher. I am very sorry I was not able to get to town yesterday but I will be in touch. My family and I have been thinking about y'all and praying for you.I spoke to my dear friend Chuck Miller who knows you and sends his thoughts to you also. God Bless,Stephen
- Stephen McMillan, Charleston, SC
Dear Cary, Carol and Family. I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my sincerest condolences.
- Jay Hall, Savannah, Georgia
We send our thoughts and prayers to the Downing family.
- Chad Little , Lansing , MI
Dear Stephen and Family, I was so sorry and sad to hear about Chris. Always a nice guy, good friend and he will be greatly missed. Stephen, you and April are in my thoughts.....
- Bailey, Savannah, GA
My condolences to you all. I had the privilege of working with Chris over the last few years. I considered Chris not only my coworker but my friend. He will be deeply missed.
- Dan Forget, Spanish Fort , Alabama
April, I am so sorry to read this tonight. You and your husband's family are in my thoughts and prayers. He accomplished so much in such a short life. So sad for you all. God bless.
- Teresa Lockett, Savannah, Ga.
My deepest condolences go to Chris’s family and friends. He was a very good friend to me when I lived in Savannah. RIP, sweet soul.
- MaryBeth Withers, Atlanta , Ga
I’ve known Chris as long as I can remember, ever since we were kids in grade school growing up on Skidaway Island, playing on the same neighborhood soccer team. He was only one grade younger than me and my friends but at the time we fancied ourselves SO much older. If I close my eyes now I can see him riding his dirt bike up my parent’s driveway and ditching it in the pine straw, most certainly bearing gifts of mixed tapes much to mine and my girl gang’s delight. Making and keeping friends was natural for Chris. Everyone he met was drawn to his infectious positive, affable and witty energy. I had the great fortune to remain friends with Chris over the years and even if I didn’t see him for a while our circles would collide again. There are only a handful of people that have captivated my attention for my entire life and Chris is one of them. I don’t think I could have had it any other way, he was just too unique and brought such a light to the world that will be missed by so many. To the Downing family, I hope you will find comfort and peace in knowing what an impression your son and brother made on everyone he met. He was impossible not to love and will be impossible to forget. Love, Alicia Klawin
- Alicia Klawin, Redondo Beach, California
We remember Chris fondly. It seems like only yesterday we were all watching the boys growing up and watching them play sports at Savannah Christian. Please know that our prayers are with you and your family. May all the joys and precious memories of Chris sustain you and give you peace. Pat and Ernie Keich
- Keich Family, Salisbury , NC
Dear Cary and family, Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your son/brother. May his soul rest in peace and may your memories bring you comfort. Amanda and Tommy Cannon
- , ,
Carol and Cary, I remember Chris from years ago and I am heart sick for all of your family. A terrible tragedy for such a fine young man with so much yet to give and enjoy. We must all share the love and joy of life everyday. I send you love and prayers to help with the grief you are experiencing. Lee Forbes
- Lee Forbes, Savannag, Ga.
I am so sorry about your son's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. With God's Love and Mine, Linda Lair Futrell
- Linda Futrell, Savannah, Ga
Chris was a great guy who I feel very blessed to have known and to call a friend. My prayers are with his family and loved ones.
- Rachel Reese Guerra , Newnan, GA
My dear Carol and Cary, my heart breaks for you and for Stephen. I am so very sorry for your loss of Chris. I know he was loved by so many people in Savannah, and I’m sure also in Mobile. He certainly had an impressive career, and I know y’all are so proud of him. My prayer for all of you is that your many wonderful memories will comfort and sustain you now and forever. Sending you all my love and sincere sympathy. I will keep each of you in my prayers. Much love, Jan
- Jan Daniel Crawford, Virginia Beach , Va.
I am and will forever be grateful for meeting Chris and having the honor of calling him my friend. I am so sorry for your loss...He was loved by everyone and we wiill miss him dearly. God Bless you all.
- John Meshad, Athens, GA
So saddened by this news. Chris was truely one of the kindest and most fun loving individuals I have ever known. My prayers and thoughts are with your family.
- Coleman Morris, Atlanta , GA
Peace with be you and your family.Protect us and be our guardian angel.You will never be forgotten and you surely will be missed.We love you.
- Shaylin, Savannah, Ga
What an amazing person I was so blessed to know. He always had a smile and a laugh for me and always made me feel so special. No one lit up a room like Chris. The world will miss his brightness and enthusiasm for everything he did. Thank you for bring an amazing friend to me. What a blast we had! Love you my dear friend.
- Jenifyr Bedard, Jupiter , FL
Our deepest condolences.
- Mike and Ginny O'Neill, Savannah, GA
Chris and I meet in Savannah.. the minute I meet him i never stop smiling while he was around. He once told me I was genius!! Chris was a sweet, loving, caring, hard working, talented, funny, and as he would say.. he was a genius.... thanks so much for having an impact on me and never giving up on me when I had hard times. And just being a great friend. You never judged and always continue to keep us al together!! I can’t wait to celebrate your life Wednesday night. With our amazing friends. I know you will be with us in spirit and I know I will continue keep you with me and the Spotify playlist we shared. Love you buddy... I’ll meet you on the other side.
- Tahnee bassett , Atlanta , Ga
We are so very sorry for your loss
- Benton, Savannah,
Dear Carol ~ Sending you & your family much Love & Sympathy ....So terribly sorry for your broken heart with the sudden loss of your son, Chris.
- Carol,Hammock Williamson , Savannah, Ga
Growing up on The Landings, it seemed like all the kids plyed together like a posse! I will always remember him as a happy go lucky, free spirited guy. It's hard to see my peers go young........... Eye opening.
- Carson, Savannah, Ga
I will miss you so much. A piece of my heart has broken off and gone away with you. You were an extremely special person in this world. Fly free. Play the guitar up there. And remember "Pennies From Heaven" for your Mom. ?
- Julie Pulliam, Tillamook, Oregon
I am one of Chris's friends from Savannah. He will be missed great very few people had a smile that brightens up your face the way his did and he was one of the funniest people I know. Lots of love and prayers for your family during this time.
- Andrea Bruner, Douglas , Wy
My heart felt condolences
- Adam Hodges , Savannah , Georgia
He accomplished a great deal in his short life! So sorry that he is no longer with us. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Downing family. God bless you all.
- Jonathan Melton, Charleston , SC
Cary and Carol I am so very sorry for your loss and the loss of a very dear friend. We shared a lot of laughs and I cherished our phone conversations after he moved to Mobile. Tammy and I will keep you in our prayers and may God bless and comfort you during this difficult time.
- Mike and Tammy Allard, Guyton, Ga
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200

