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Obituary For Vanessa Downer
Dr. Vanessa Downer, 63, passed on Sunday, December 22, 2024 in Columbus, GA.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. EST on Sunday, December 29, 2024 at Greater Shady Grove Baptist Church located at 3000 12th Ave, Columbus, GA with Pastor Marcus Gibson, officiating. Burial to follow in Green Acres Cemetery.
The AKA Ceremony will be held from 1:00 - 3:00; Public viewing is 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. EST on Saturday, December 28, 2024.
Dr. Vanessa Edwards Downer departed this earthly life on December 22, 2024, when God called her home at the age of sixty-three. Dr. Downer was born on April 7, 1')61 in Tifton, GA. She was raised as a native of Albany, GA Dr. Downer graduated from Monroe High School in 1979 and was recognized as the Salutatorian of her class. She received her B.S. in Biology with honors from Albany State College, now known as Albany State University, in Albany, GA in 1983- While atteruling Albany State, Dr. Downer was a member of Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society and was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® through the Gamma Sigma Chapter in the Fall of 1980. She also served as President of that chapter from 1982-1983.
Dr. Downer then went on to receive her Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree from the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, GA in 1987. Soon thereafter, Dr. Vanessa Downer as an African American dentist achieved several firsts in her career. After graduating from Medical College of Georgia Dental School, Dr. Downer returned to her hometown of Albany, GA and became the first African American woman to practice dentistry with the Turner Job Corps there in Albany, GA. After getting married in 1988 to Dr. Tommy D. Downer and moving to Columbus, GA, Dr. Vanessa Downer became the first African American woman to practice dentistry with the Stewart-Webster Rural Health Clinic in Richland, GA where she worked for many years. Dr. Vanessa Downer eventually became the first and only male or female African American to practice dentistry at the Columbus Health Department. Soon thereafter, Dr. Vanessa Downer became the first and only African American to hold her current position as the West Central Georgia Health District Dental Director. In addition, Dr. Vanessa Downer received the ''Provider of the Year" Award presented by the Georgia Association for Primary Health Care in 1996, making her thefirst Dentist (male or female) to ever receive this award.
Dr. Downer is a Silver Star and Life Member of the Gamma Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, where she served as President until her passing. Under her leadership, the Chapter received the Best of the Best Chapter Award and the EAF Platinum Chapter Level award, along with numerous other chapter and individual awards. She also led the chapter in co-hosting the 2021 Cluster IV meeting held in Columbus, GA during her first year as President. In addition, she was instrumental in the celebration of the chapter's first Diamond and, at that time, living charter member. She was also instrumental in the chapter celebrating its 80th Anniversary and the recognition of the chapter's first Pearl members.
Prior to becoming President, she served as the Second Vice President (Fundraising Chair 2014-2018), and First Vice President (Program Chair 2019-2020). During her tenure as Program Chair, the chapter continued to be recognized with awards from the South Atlantic Region for both the chapter and individual chapter members.
Dr. Downer received the chapter's "Soror of the Year" award in 2016 and was again elected to receive the award this year in December of 2024. Dr. Downer has been a member of the Board of Directors of SISTERS, Incorporated, the philanthropic arm of Gamma Tau Omega Chapter, since 2017 and has served as the foundation's secretary.
In the community, Dr. Vanessa Downer was a member of several organizations, including the Board of Directors of the Tree of Life Foundation, the Community Advocacy Board for the Sumter County Head Start/Early Head Start Program, and Mt. Calvary Baptist Association She also served as Chair of the annual Community Health and Wellness Fair at Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church for the past 10 years.
Dr. Vanessa Downer received a plethora of awards for her community involvement, including the Outstanding Service Award from Sumter CDC in 2018-2019, the Legacy of the League Award presented by the Urban League of the River Valley in 2022, and the Mt. Calvary Baptist Association Woman of the Year Award in 2024.
Dr. Vanessa Downer was a dedicated member of Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church, where she was responsible for publicity, designing flyers, designing slides for morning worship services, website maintenance, and creating printed programs for various ministries and programs. She also sang in two of the choirs, served in the Deacons Wives Ministry, and was a former leader of the Youth Department and still worked with the Youth Department up until her passing. Dr. Vanessa was also serving as the leader of Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church's Activity Center Committee which has the assignment to update, renovate, and decorate the Activity Center.
Dr. Vanessa Downer was an incredibly special woman with the ability to put anyone at ease with a smile or a word. She leaves behind her loving husband of 36 years, Dr. Tommy D. Downer; their daughter, Dr. Kelcie Downer White (Ryan), and their son, Kendall D. Downer.
Dr. Vanessa Downer also leaves behind to cherish her memory her mother, Janet M. Edwards; her older brother, Gregory W. Edwards, Sr. (Regina); her younger brother, John W. Edwards, III (Lola), and her younger sister, Sandra Edwards Inman (Donaell), Cassandra Davis (Carl), John B. Edwards (Alicia), Courtney Edwards Seragusa (Valerie). In addition Dr. Downer is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins, her mother-in-law, Mary Downer, and a multitude of loved ones and friends.
MAY GOD BLESS HER SOUL
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Peggie Perrin Mack sent Radiant Foliage Planter for Vanessa Downer - December 28, 2024
Darnell and family
My God keep and strengthen one and all for the days ahead.
Charlotte Hargett sent Pink Tribute Spray for Vanessa Downer - December 27, 2024
We are here for you all always and forever. We love you and will always keep you all lifted up in prayers.
Love you, The Moon Family
Ava L.Wilkes sent Eternal Peace Basket for Vanessa Downer - December 27, 2024
To The Downer Family, You are in our prayers. Praying that God grants you all peace and comfort . Love, Fredell and Ava Wilkes
Nancy Gallagher sent Divine Light for Vanessa Downer - December 27, 2024
Our Deepest condolences- Nancy Gallagher, Kim Hibbs, Donna Wells, Hazel Haynes, Nicole Brown, Janice Joyce, Diane Amedee, Katherine Nooney
Serene Lily Basket was sent for Vanessa Downer - December 26, 2024
April Wynne sent Emerald Garden Basket for Vanessa Downer - December 26, 2024
Condolences from the Dougherty County District Attorney's Office, Albany, Georgia
Cheryl Moon sent Joyful Memory for Vanessa Downer - December 26, 2024
We were heartbroken to hear about Vanessa. She will truly be missed. Praying for the Lord's peace and comfort during this difficult time. Edward & Cheryl Moon
John Underwood sent Heavenly Grace Spray for Vanessa Downer - December 26, 2024
God bless and comfort your family in this time of need. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones. From the staff at Salomon Dental Clinic.
Elva Rodriguez sent Heavenly & Harmony for Vanessa Downer - December 24, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Your family is in our prayers. Elva Rodriguez and Todd Hutchings
Sherri Engram planted 5 trees in memory of Vanessa Downer . - December 28, 2024
Tommy I just heard today of Venessa's passing in December. I am truly saddened by this. I always had such cheerful calls with her and still remember fondly the times when we were all in Augusta at MCG. My prayers are with you and your children in this difficult period of mourning. May God's grace bless you and may the memories of such a wonderful person who touched so many lives in a graceful and caring manner be a comfort to all of you in the future. Dr. Edward Paris.
I am deeply sorry for your loss of Vanessa. I've know her since we were kids growing up in Hines CME. She always had a smile no matter what I pray each of you will seek help from the Lord for HE shall renew your strength. Much love and prayers. Valerie Hancock Ryals
My heartfelt condolences to the Downer family, my prayers are with you all as you go thoughts this difficult time. Remember the times you shared, allow them to help you through these times of sorrow. A beautiful spirit gone too soon. Dr.Downer RIP, you will be greatly missed.
Uptown-East Highland Neighborhood Assoc. Inc.
Dr. Vanessa Downer will be forever missed. My deepest condolences to her husband, children, and the rest of the family. I met Dr. Vanessa Downer through my mother in law Evonda Tention. She was such a very nice, sweet , and humble human being. Everytime I would see she would be so so nice and greeted me with the warmest, prettiest smile. She was so welcoming. I will never forget she did my canddy table /decoration/ party favors for my wedding back in 2013. Everything was beautiful!!!!! She will surely be missed around this community and beyond!!! Lotorria & Demetrius Sheppard
My heartfelt condolences to the Downer family, my prayers are with you all as you go thoughts this difficult time. Remember the times you shared, allow them to help you through these times of sorrow. A beautiful spirit gone too soon. Dr.Downer RIP, you will be greatly missed.
I'm so sorry to hear this. Vanessa was a great dentist she always had jokes kept you smiling love her personality. She was mine and kids dentist. Prayers to the family.
Karina
Vanessa was a compassionate, loving and considerate person. She was an earth angle. We met at The Medical College of GA in the 80's. My heart is deeply saddened that she has passed. She will forever be in my thoughts. Dr. Betty Anthony
Dr. Vanessa, you were so kind and always had a smile that made everything perfect that will live forever. You were a beckon of light and my Soror. My continuous prayers go out to the family during this difficult time. Love leaves a memory no one can steal. Rest In Peace Soror Angela Seay 🙏🏽💕💚
Thinking of the Downer/Edwards family as you celebrate Vanessa's remarkable life. May happy memories of Vanessa bring you comfort. The Marshall family was so very proud of our cousin. We will never forget her.
Harriett Raine Knight – Las Vegas NV
My sincere condolences to the Edwards and Downer family. Dr. Vanessa E. Downer will be truly missed and will never be forgotten. From Yvette Simmons, Classmate and Sorority Sister.
Our sincerest condolences to Tommy, Kelcie, Kendall, Aunt Janet, Wayne, John, Sandra, & all of Dr. Vanessa Downer's Family. Van, as I've always known her, has been the sweetest, kindest, most humble and caring person anyone could ever meet. I'm so thankful God allowed me to not only meet her but love her as well. May God continue to strengthen each of you and give you His peace during this difficult time.
Brenda Gail & Ernest Bell & Family
Your life mattered to me. I remember our days in dental school, how smart you were, and the humor we shared. I remember too your kind spirit and gentle manner at dental care delivery. Prayers to your family. Truly, Dara Barron and family
We are praying that your memories will comfort you in the days, weeks, months and years ahead. I met Dr. Downer when she became our offical dentist at Tri-County Head Start in Buena Vista, GA. She was gentle and firm while taking care of our children's dental needs. She will be deeply missed. Sending condolences to family and friends! David & Melanie Thomas
Condolences Dr. Downer and I started out on this journey back in 1996 in Richland Ga. Neither one of us never imagined that 28 years later we would still be working side by side 5 days a week.Everybody know that's a long time for 2 women to be able to work together for so long!!! But as the years passed and she moved to Columbus Georgia to pursue another position at the Columbus Health Department, and guess what,she took me along with her (smile). No the years have not been easy but at the end of the day we had LOVE for each other. Eventho she left this side before I could say goodbye, she will always hold a special place in my heart and will be loved and missed by so many!!!! Sending condolences Evonda (Gayle) Tention
Rest easy Dr. D
Dr. Downer and I started out on this journey back in 1996 in Richland Ga. Neither one of us never imagined that 28 years later we would still be working side by side 5 days a week.Everybody know that's a long time for 2 women to be able to work together for so long!!! But as the years passed and she moved to Columbus Georgia to pursue another position at the Columbus Health Department, and guess what,she took me along with her (smile). No the years have not been easy but at the end of the day we had LOVE for each other. Eventho she left this side before I could say goodbye, she will always hold a special place in my heart and will be loved and missed by so many!!!!
Rest easy Dr. D
Our hearts are overwhelmed with grief. We will not lean on our understanding, we will trust you Lord and Your promises. Dr. Downer you were a jewel of your own class and will truly be missed. Our prayers and condolences to Dr. Downer, Kelcie and Kendall and the family. Be at rest Dr. V, thy good and faithful servant. Sister Cannon, Tameika, Aiden and Avery
My deepest condolences to the family. Rest in Heaven with Jesus Dr. Vanessa Downwer.
From Sandra Jest and family your classmate💚🩷
Sending condolences and prayers to her family. My funniest memories were the times we went to our senior prom together and our 10th class reunion event. I'll always remember her beautiful smile. Rest in peace my friend.🙏🏾🙏🏾💚🩷
Condolences and prayers to our Cousins, Dr. Tommy, Dr. Kelcie, Mr. Kendall, and Aunt Mary Downer as you celebrate the Life and Legacy of our beloved Dr. Vanessa E. Downer. We will miss her dearly at Family gatherings and other special occasions. But at times like this we realize that our God can do what none of us can do; and that is to heal, comfort, and give you peace. We love you all. With Deepest Sympathy. Mollie & Marshall Hill,Sr., Carolyn Hill, Sheryl & Willie Boykins,Sr., and Tajah Johnson (Metro Atlanta Area).
Vanessa, was a jewel in our class, she's gone but never forgotten. We pray that God will blanket your family with peace, comfort and strength. From Landy Phillips and The Monroe High School c/o 1979
Blessed with many gifts, Dr. Downer was intelligent and focused. She was a dear friend that encouraged and guided me in college. Without her I would not have embarked upon the career that I enjoy today. My debt to her can never be repaid. Your smile was electric and the world is slightly dimmer with your passing. Dr. Horace Mitchell Monroe High Class of '79
Dr. Downer was a joy to work with at DPH. Her sweet smile and spirit will be greatly missed. May you find comfort and strength in your cherished memories. God bless you all, Joanne Strickland
Words cannot fully express how we feel right now. Your smile and kind words, your leadership and grace, will truly be missed by all of the members of Gamma Tau Omega Chapter. God bless you.
You will be truly missed, our sister in Christ. Our deepest sympathy & condolences to the Downer family.
Dr Vanessa!! Oh how I will miss you!! You were so kind and always had a smile that just lit up the room. You were my hero, my friend, my Soror and sister in Christ!! Your impact on GSGMBC, Alpha Kappa Alpha, and DPH has been profound and will last for years to come. Rest well my friend in the arms of our Lord!!
God picks his flowers when he wants them. Even though that person is everything to you and the source of your life, God has the final say. Our sweet sister was so talented and she used her talents to help others. She was a true DOER of the word. I added this candle to represent her spirit that I know is shining bright with God. I know I will continue to keep her spirit of doing everything in excellence with me and I thank God for allowing her to come into my life and shining her light! My sincere and deepest condolences to the family on a lost so great. May God calm your mind and flood your spirit with strength to handle your grief. Submitted in love, Anita Smith (GTO)
Praying for you and your family during this time of loss. May God grant you strength and peace.
Marilyn Jones
Downer family, Sorry for your loss. Dr. D was such a wonderful & Humbled woman with blessed hands. She will truly be missed. Peace for the family. The Adams/Biggers
I had the pleasure of meeting Vanessa at Albany State University over 44 years ago. She was always an intelligent, kind, beautiful, and selfless person. I am extending my sincere condolences to Dr. Downer, their children, her brother and other family members. I pray that you will find comfort in your sweet memories. May God bless you all.
Cuz my prayers are with each of you Didn't post my name on previous post so I wanted to let you know this Angela Downer
Cuz & Kids I'm so sorry for your lost You have my deepest feelings I pray God give you strength during this difficult time.
Sending condolences and prayers to the family of Dr. Downer. May God continue to comfort you all during this difficult time.
We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Dr. Vanessa Downer. Our heart goes out to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. May cherished memories of Dr. Downer's love, laughter, and light bring you comfort and peace. May you find strength in the support of loved ones and the knowledge that you're not alone in your grief. Please accept our sincerest condolences from Nate and Arleen Greene. God Bless!
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Dr. Downer. I worked with her at DPH and she was always a beacon of light! She will truly be missed. My prayers go out to the family during this time. Kiara L
May the grace and peace of Christ rest on the family and friends of Dr. Vanessa Downer.
Dr.Downer Will Be Truly Missed. She And I Go Way Back. I Met Dr. Vanessa, When She First Moved To Columbus Georgia. I Worked With Her At (CHD) Columbus Health Department. We Were Co-workers,And Friends As Well.Her Dental Staff And I, Just Had Our Annual Christmas Lunch On Friday, Before Her Passing. Thank You Father For This Opportunity. I'm Sorry For Your Loss Dr Tommy And Family. She Was A Treasure.
Our deepest Sympathy & Condolences. Prayers for Strength & Comfort for Deacon Downer & family
Our deepest Condolences. Prayers for strength & comfort
I cannot believe this has happened. You have been my boss, my friend and confidant for so many years. I am so glad we were together on Friday before this tragedy. I saw this message today and it sums up your life in my eyes....In memory of a life so beautifully lived and a heart so deeply loved. I miss and love you. Kat Nickerson!!!!!
Words of sympathy feel inadequate in expressing grief and sorrow for a loss so great. Sending a warm embrace to the family during this sad time. Teresa BucknerHopkins
Dr. Downer you were a joy and a angel. Thanks for your commitment to dentistry. Love Belinda Scott. Praying for you and your beautiful family.
Our most heartfelt condolences to Deacon T. Downer and family during this difficult time. May our Father continue to guide your every step ❤️🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾.
I met Dr. Downer at Canaan Baptist Church where I found out we were sorority sisters. She later became my autistic son's dentist. She will be missed. The Downer family is in our prayers. Love, Dr. Cynthia "Ce-Ce" Smith and Lance!
Dr. Vanessa Downer has been a bright light and given so much of her time professionally. I have collaborated with Dr. Downer at The Dental College of Georgia for nearly two decades. Her unwavering support for the clerkship program gave many dental students an opportunity learn dentistry in her Columbus clinic, a public health setting that offered new perspective and helped shape their dental careers. Dr. Downer was a kind person with a giving heart and willingness to share her wisdom. A valuable partner but, even more a friend. I will miss her dearly. To her family, praying for you. Thank you for sharing her joy with us. Sincerely, Ketarya D. Hunt Bass Director, DCG Community Outreach Programs
You will be missed. RIH classmate. Bobby Wilson
To the Family of Soror Downer, May God grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Dr. Vanessa Downer was a phenomenal woman and it saddens our hearts to know that she is gone. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Downer family. May God continue to comfort and strengthen you all. The Worsley Family (James Sr., Tara, Lily, James Jr., and Bryce)
Dr. Vanessa Downer was a phenomenal woman and it saddens our hearts to know that she is gone. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Downer family. May God continue to comfort and strengthen you all.
The Worsley Family (James Sr., Lily, James Jr., and Bryce)
Dr. Downer was one of My Biggest Supporters during my tenure as Minister of Music at GSGMBC. Praying with the family as they go through this most difficult time. Rev. Christopher Godwin
Dr. Downer was my "Mrs. Jazzy". Her smile and spirit I will miss. She was always so sweet and welcoming to me. My Prayers and Condolences to the family. SARAH CARTER
Dr. Downer was my "Mrs. Jazzy". Her smile and spirit I will miss. She was always so sweet and welcoming to me. My Prayers and Condolences to the family.
Our prayers and sympathy goes out to the Downer family. May God give them strength and guidance doing this difficult period. Kenneth and Pearl Graham.
My prayers & condolences to the family sweet memories will live on. I will truly miss Doctor D. B. Ramsey
Dr. Downer was a very sweet person who was always smiling. She never seemed too busy to speak to you or answer your question. God be with and bless her family. Cheryl Gray
Sending heartfelt condolences to the Downer family.
Deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Vanessa Downer, a dear Soror and long time family friend. A beautiful, sweet, talented soul who selflessly gave of her time and resources to help others.
Dr. V Downer was a sweet person, We loved her so much . Our prayers are with you all today and the days to come. We know God will comfort your hearts Brenda Tyson
Our prayers and condolences to the Downer family. Vanessa was such a sweet and loving person. Lisa
Dr V was such a sweet and loving woman. We are grieving along with her family and praying for strength and comfort. Lisa Harris
Doctor Downer will surely be missed : (
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
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