Carol L. Downing's Obituary
Carol Louise Downing was born on Saturday, December 12, 1942 in Dayton, Ohio to William Harley Downing and Norma Louise Lynn, and passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026. Carol was the middle of five children. Her parents and four brothers, William (Bill) Harley Downing, Jr., David (Dave) Michael Downing, Roy Lynn (Tuffy) Jones, and Claude Earl Jones preceded her in death, as well as her son-in-law, Ricky Levan Shelton, and step-grandson, Jason Paul Shelton.
Carol explored many interests throughout her life, including but not limited to athleticism (tennis, Tae Kwon Do, Skeet Shooting), artistry (painting, sculpting, and silversmithing), and adventure (scuba diving in the Virgin Islands, ziplining in Haiti, helicopter riding over Mount Saint Helen’s). She loved the outdoors and she was frequently seen gardening, bird watching, and star gazing.
Most of all, she adored her family and friends. Her favorite experiences were the ones she shared with those she loved - whether those were small quiet moments at home or grand parties she hosted to celebrate one’s birthdays, accomplishments, or simply “just because.” Above all else, her loved ones were what mattered most to her.
Carol is survived by her daughter, Tammi Louise Shelton, son, Mark Franklin Gaddis and daughter-in-law, Judy Stiles Gaddis, 5 grandchildren and their spouses, 7 great-grandchildren, and a wealth of friends and family who all loved her dearly.
Carol will be missed, but her memory and spirit will live on with us always.
A Memorial Service will take place on Monday, June 1, 2026 at Restland Funeral Home, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75243 at 2:00 PM. A brief reception will follow at Restland and a Celebration of Life will continue into the evening at the residence for those who wish to join.
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