Betty R. “Sims” Downs of Loogootee, formerly of Dover Hill, age 78, passed away peacefully surrounded by her beloved family on July 12, 2025, in Loogootee, Indiana. Born on August 22, 1946, in Washington, Indiana, to the late Jacqueline Gaither Sims and Meredith Sims, Betty’s life was one of unwavering faith, boundless love, and an enduring commitment to nurturing the lives of those around her.
Betty’s journey through life was one walked hand in hand with her loving husband, Larry Downs. Married on a spring day in 1964 at the Methodist Church in Dover Hill, they cultivated a partnership that exemplified true companionship and shared purpose. Their harmonious marriage was blessed with three devoted daughters: Alicia Padgett (Andy), Julie Foster, and Crystal “Kristi” Venters (Yul). Betty’s life was further enriched by her cherished grandchildren, Joshua and Jericho Padgett, Brandon Foster, Jameson Coy, and Coleman and Timothy Venters.
After graduating from Shoals High School in 1964 and furthering her education with an Associate’s in Childhood Development, Betty’s vocational path led her to touch the lives of many children. Whether at the Shoals School Corporation, the Shoals News, or Hoosier Uplands, her gentle spirit and dedication made a lasting impact. However, Betty’s true vocation lay within the church. Alongside Larry, she co-founded the Hilltop Chapel Church in Dover Hill and Christian Union Church. As a gifted musician and worship leader, Betty found joy in leading congregations in song, and together with Larry, they diligently worked to bring hope and guidance to countless lives.
A dutiful Sunday school teacher, Betty shared her love for scripture with her students, fostering a sense of wonder and faith in the younger generation. She and Larry shared a calling as foster parents, always maintaining an open door for children in need. Her heart knew no bounds when it came to caring for little ones, and her passion for teaching reached beyond the church into every facet of her life.
She is survived and lovingly remembered by her siblings, Stanley Sims (Charlene), Steve Sims (Jerra), and Merrill Sims, along with innumerable nieces, nephews, and members of her extended church family, who all benefited from her boundless devotion and loving guidance; she is also survived by close family friend, Rodney Foster.
Betty was preceded in death by her sisters, Linda Johnson (Ronnie) and Janet Anne Sims, sister-in-laws, Opha Sims, Chris Sims, and Norma Jean Sims, nephew, Michael Downs, and her cherished in-laws, Joyce and Wilson Downs.
Betty Downs lived as a beacon of faith-filled love, her legacy being one of compassion and devotion that deeply imprinted on the hearts of all who knew her. Her life, a testament to the profound effect that one soul, walking in love and faith, can have on the world. She will be profoundly missed but never forgotten, as her melodies of worship and love continue to echo in the lives she has touched.
We invite you to visitation on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 from 5:00 P.M until 8:00 P.M. at The Dover Hill Christian Union Church. A service will follow on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. to be officiated by Pastor Steve Sims, also at the church there will be visitation from noon until the time of service. Burial will be in Mt. Union Cemetery 14504 Dover Hill Road, Loogootee, IN 47553. In lieu of flowers, please make monetary contributions to Mt. Union Cemetery in order to provide funds for grounds keeping. Fredrick and Son-Gill Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with assisting the family of Mrs. Downs in honoring her legacy. Fond memories and online condolences may be shared at www.gillsince1872.com.
