Timothy Franklin Downey Sr.—devoted husband, proud Navy veteran, music fan, and motorcycle enthusiast—passed away peacefully at home in Mattaponi, Virginia, on April 21, 2025, at the age of 73.
Tim was born on September 24, 1951, in Gary, Indiana. Tim’s four years of service in the United States Navy brought him to Norfolk, where he met the love of his life, Deborah, and began a distinguished career of more than forty years at Newport News Shipbuilding, ultimately earning the title of master shipbuilder for his craftsmanship.
Whether he was humming “All You Need Is Love” while fixing things around the house, guiding coworkers at the shipyard, or cruising back roads on his bike, Tim carried that simple message of love into every corner of his life.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosemary; his father, Richard; and his identical twin brother, Robert.
He is survived by his wife, Deborah; his sons, Timothy Jr. and Aaron; his daughter in law, Marina; his grandsons, Nicholas and Jason; and his nieces, Christine and Elizabeth.
As we plan a celebration of life to be announced later, we ask that, in lieu of flowers, you honor Tim’s longstanding practice of giving by donating blood or contributing to the American Red Cross.
In his memory, may we keep the music playing, the bikes flying free down open roads, and his generous spirit alive.
