Norma Jean Downs

June 28, 1938 – February 11, 2020

Norma Jean Downs of Olive Branch, MS passed away Tuesday morning, February 11, 2020, at Magnolia Place in New Albany, MS.  Jean was born on June 28, 1938, in Guin, AL and moved to Memphis, TN with her family after graduation from high school. Jean is survived by her children, Hershel (Sonny) Downs, Jr. (Edna) and Steven Downs (Sharon) both of Byhalia, MS; her brother, David Howell (Jane); her grandchildren, Steven Downs (Jess), Brittany Gardner (Chris), Shelby Hollingsworth (Nick), and Brandy Harvison; 5 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Odos and Clois Howell; her sister, Pat LaRochelle; and her brother, Don Howell. Jean was a graduate of Marion County High School in Guin, AL and worked at numerous jobs in the Memphis area including Sears and Metro Aviation in Olive Branch, MS. She was a member of Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Olive Branch, MS.  Jean enjoyed cross-stitching and crocheting. Her family will cherish some of these beautiful pieces.  She loved her two dogs, Bandit and Sadie. Her visitation will be on Saturday, February 15, 2020, from 9:00~10: 00 a.m. with her funeral service at 10:00 a.m. at Forest Hill East on Whitten Road. 901-382-1000