Leonard Downs Early Life, Education, Family, Priestly Ministry, Retirement & Diagnosis

The Reverend Leonard James Downs, affectionately known as Father Jim, was a devoted Catholic priest who dedicated his life to serving others.

With a warm smile and a kind heart, he touched the lives of countless individuals through his priestly ministry, leaving a lasting impact on the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington and beyond.

Profile Summary

Full Name	Reverend Leonard James Downs
Nickname	Father Jim
Gender	Male
Date of Birth	October 7, 1940
Place of Birth	Washington, D.C.
Nationality	American
Zodiac Sign	Libra
Parents	Leonard J. Downs and Alta “Lois” Downs
Siblings	Portia “Betty” Downs Donovan Lichtenberger, Paul Downs
Education	Graduated from Gonzaga High School
Ordination	May 7, 1966, at Saint Matthew’s Cathedral, Washington, D.C.
Priestly Ministry	Parishes served
Retirement	2009
Later Life	Moved to Lewes, Delaware
Diagnosis	Alzheimer’s disease in 2020
Passing	January 28, 2024
Age at Passing	83

Who is Leonard Downs?

Reverend Leonard James Downs was a Catholic priest who served in various parishes within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington. Born on October 7, 1940, in Washington, D.C., he grew up in Hillcrest Heights, Maryland, with a strong faith and a desire to serve others.

Early Life and Family

Father Jim was born to Leonard J. Downs and Alta “Lois” Downs, and he had a sister, Portia “Betty” Downs Donovan Lichtenberger, and a brother, Paul Downs. His family was deeply rooted in their Catholic faith, which played a significant role in shaping his future.

Read Also: Theo Millas Early Life

Education and Ordination

Father Jim attended Gonzaga High School and later enrolled in Saint Charles College in Catonsville, Maryland. He then pursued his priestly studies at Saint Mary’s Seminary in Roland Park, Maryland, where he was ordained on May 7, 1966, at Saint Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington, D.C.

Priestly Ministry

Father Jim’s priestly ministry spanned several decades, during which he served in various parishes within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington. He was known for his compassion, wisdom, and sense of humor, which endeared him to his parishioners.

Parishes Served

Father Jim served in several parishes, including Saint Mary’s in Rockville, Maryland, Saint Bernadette in Silver Spring, Maryland, Mount Calvary in Forestville, Maryland, Our Lady Queen of Peace in Washington, D.C., Saint John the Evangelist in Clinton, Maryland, Ascension Church in Bowie, Maryland, and Saint Mathias in Lanham, Maryland.

Retirement and Later Life

After retiring in 2009, Father Jim moved to Lewes, Delaware, where he continued to serve in various capacities. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2020 and moved to Grace House Assisted Living in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Diagnosis and Passing

Father Jim passed away on January 28, 2024, at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and devotion.

Legacy and Impact

Father Jim’s legacy extends far beyond his priestly ministry. He was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light to countless individuals. His selflessness, kindness, and generosity inspired others to follow in his footsteps.

Biographical Timeline

October 7, 1940: Born in Washington, D.C.
1958: Graduated from Gonzaga High School
1966: Ordained at Saint Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington, D.C.
2009: Retired from active ministry
2020: Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease
January 28, 2024: Passed away at the age of 83

Visit Also: Laura Putty Stroud Bio

Final Thoughts

Father Jim’s life was a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and service. His legacy continues to inspire others, and his memory will be cherished by those whose lives he touched.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Reverend Leonard James Downs?

Reverend Leonard James Downs, also known as Father Jim, was a Catholic priest who served in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington.

Where was Father Jim born?

Father Jim was born in Washington, D.C., on October 7, 1940.

When was Father Jim ordained?

Father Jim was ordained on May 7, 1966, at Saint Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington, D.C.

Where did Father Jim serve as a priest?

Father Jim served in various parishes within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, including Saint Mary’s in Rockville, Maryland, and Our Lady Queen of Peace in Washington, D.C.