Sibyl Jean Downing

Sibyl J. Downing, age 82, passed away peacefully October 6th, 2022, surrounded by family.  She was ready to leave this world and meet her Savior with her husband by her side, holding her hand.  She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and “Granny” to many she welcomed into her home. 

Sibyl was born on June 7th, 1940, in Gainesville, FL to Ralph & Ethel Cheely.  She graduated from Chiefland High School and then married the love of her life, Jimmie Downing. They have made Trenton their home for the past 52 years where they raised their children. She loved to read and keeping up to date with her community and friends through Facebook.  She had various jobs such as working for Nationwide, the State of Florida Department of Agriculture, and substitute teaching for Gilchrist County schools.  Sibyl was active in the community she cherished.   She loved quilting with the Springhouse Quilt Club.  She was active with the 3 Rivers Library where she served as the chairman of the board for many years as well as advocating and helping to start the children’s story programs.  Many remember her stories.  When she went out, she was always approached by little ones remembering the adventures of “icky, ticky timbo”.  She was a Florida Gator fan through and through.  She was a dedicated member of the Cherry Sink Church of Christ.  She was devoted to worship and to helping in works of the church.  She taught bible school classes for many years.  Besides the Lord, family was most important to her.  She was a loving and wonderful mother who sought to be at all the events and venues her children & grandchildren participated in.  She welcomed everyone into her home, treated all as family and earned the nickname ‘Granny” to all extended family members. 

She is preceded in death by her parents Ralph L. Cheely and Ethel J. (Harris) Cheely.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Jimmie Downing, daughters Cynthia Downing of Trenton, Sandra West of Trenton, Tracey (Freddie) Wilkerson of Trenton, and Anne (Roy) Jones of Old Town, a sister Jackie Pickett of Arkansas, 5 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

A service to honor Sibyl’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 11th at the Cherry Sink Church of Christ in Trenton, FL, with Mr. John Zellner officiating. Visitation will begin at 10am and services will begin at 11am.  She will be laid to rest at the Bethel Cemetery.   Arrangements are under the care and direction of Watson-Milton, Trenton. 352-463-8888. www.WatsonMilton.com.