Lester Frank Downs 10/08/1954 – 12/10/2021 Lester Frank "Rusty" Downs, 67, died Friday, December 10, 2021 at his home surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness. He was born in Lafayette, LA the son of Josiah and Thelma Hart Downs. Lester was an Honors Graduate at McNeese State University at Lake Charles, LA and was retired from the FAA as an Electronic Specialist. He received the FAA "Above and Beyond" Award which is the highest award presented by the agency has and was for his efforts during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Rusty was a Mason with Masonic Lodge #332 in Jackson, TN and was a veteran of Vietnam serving in the Air Force from 1972 to 1976. He was a member of Maple Springs Baptist Church helping in sound and audio for services. Lester loved fishing, genealogy, his New Orleans Saints, and cherished his two grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 40 years Rita Hebert Downs of Mercer, TN, three sons, Samuel Downs of Denmark, TN, Andrew Downs of Denmark, TN, and Dexter Downs of Sulphur, LA, two daughters, Jessica (Eugene) Rook of Denmark, TN and Jennifer (Nathan) Roaten of Mercer, TN. Two grandchildren, Carly Ann Roaten and Maci Nicole Rook, and one sister, Doris Franklin of Lake Charles, LA. The family would like extend their heartfelt thanks and deepest regards in thanking Tennessee Quality Care Hospice as they were amazing with the care given to their "Daddy" and their needs throughout his illness! His visitation will be Sunday, December 19, from 2:30 until time of service, with the funeral starting at 3:30, at Heritage Funeral Home. Interment will be at New Ritchie Cemetery. Rev. Nick Brewer will officiate. Condolences can be made at heritagefuneralhomellc.com.