Vance Wayne Downey

Ratliff City – Funeral Services for Mr. Vance Wayne “Hamp” Downey, 77, of Ratliff City are scheduled for 2:00 PM Tuesday, Nov.16, 2010 at the First Baptist Church of Ratliff City with Bro. Clyde Quick and Rev. Mike Cox officiating. Interment will follow at Foster Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Alexander Funeral Home of Ratliff City.

Hamp was born September 24, 1933 at Pernell, OK to the late Mr. Heck “Dudle” Downey and Mrs. Willie Mae (Bloodworth) Downey. He departed this life Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010 at his home in Ratliff City.

Hamp was a native to this area. He was raised here attending school at Pernell, Alma and Velma. He and the former Ms. Cora Jean Redwine were united in marriage Dec. 21, 1953 at Wichita Falls, TX. In 1955 he began employment for The Jones Oil Co. working as a pumper. He was presently still an employee of there, serving in full capacity for over 50 years. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed several hobbies which included metal detecting, arrowhead hunting, varmit calling, copperhead hunting, drawing and was always an avid trader. He was also a very talented musician who could play any stringed instrument, especially the fiddle and was also a very gifted singer. He enjoyed big family get- togethers and reunions and was always proud of being a Native American. He attended the First Baptist Church of Ratliff City.

Preceding him in death are his Parents, 1 Sister, Grantha Word, and 3 Brothers, Yanush “E.C.” Downey, Cass Downey and Connie Downey whom was like his own son.

Survivors include his wife of almost 57 years, Cora Jean of the home, 2 Daughters, Vickie Mitchell and husband Joe of Ratliff City, and Willa Mae Carter and husband Lee of Hennepin. 2 Brothers, Carroll “Babe” Downey and wife Delores of Waurika, and Billy Mac Downey of Brownwood, TX whom was also like a son of Hamp’s. Grandchildren, Melisa, Jackie, Joe and Paul. Great Grandchildren, Vance and J.J. and numerous other family and friends.

Pallbearers are Todd Kernal, Mike Jones, Tommy Downey, Alan Downey, Cass Downey, and Paul Carter.

Honorary Bearers are Lee Carter, Joe Mitchell, Dexter Bloodworth, Dennis Smith, Charlie Wright and Jeff Jones.

Family visitation will be from 6-8 pm Monday at Alexander Funeral Home of Ratliff City.

Memorials may be sent to National Parkinson Foundation in care of Alexander Funeral Home/ P.O. Box 221 Ratliff City, OK 73481.

Condolences may be sent online to the family at www.alexanderfuneralhome.org.