Dianne Williams Downs

Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford Dianne Downs,78, of Oxford, passed away on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at her residence. The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 20, 2024, from 12:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. at Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford. The funeral service celebrating Dianne's life will occur at 2:00 P.M. in the chapel of Coleman Funeral Home with Bro. Fish Robinson officiating. Dianne graced this world on June 30, 1946, in Greenwood, Mississippi, as one of the cherished daughters of the late Aaron Curtis Williams and Carolyn Levenstein Williams. After completing high school, she pursued her passion for education at the University of Southern Mississippi, earning her bachelor's in elementary education. Her journey continued at Delta State University, where she obtained a both master’s and specialist degrees, reflecting her unwavering commitment to learning and teaching. In 1966, Dianne married her beloved husband, Paul, and together, they created a beautiful life filled with love and laughter over fifty-eight wonderful years. They welcomed one son and were blessed with two grandchildren, all of whom brought immeasurable joy and countless precious memories into their lives. Dianne's impact extended beyond her family; she devoted thirty inspiring years to nurturing young minds in the Greenwood and Cleveland School Districts. Her deep passion for education shone brightly, making a lasting difference until her retirement in Mississippi in 1997. Following this chapter, she and Paul continued their shared commitment to education in the Locust Fork, Alabama, School District for an additional six years and both retired in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication. Throughout her teaching journey, Dianne found immense joy supporting Paul as he coached high school football, a passion that began for her on the sidelines in high school and gracefully transitioned to the bleachers as a devoted adult fan. When the time came for them to embrace retirement fully, they made the heartfelt decision to relocate to Oxford, where they lovingly planted their roots in the community. Their story is a testament to their enduring dedication to education and family, which will always be remembered and celebrated. After settling in Oxford, Diane embraced her retirement with enthusiasm, choosing not to let idle time take over her life. She found joy in pursuing her hobbies, like cooking, scrapbooking, and cross-stitching, which brought her a sense of fulfillment. Her support for her grandchildren was unwavering, reflecting the love she had for her family. Diane also became an integral part of the Community Church, finding connection and purpose in her involvement as she worshiped the Lord alongside fellow believers. Dianne leaves behind a loving family to continue walking down the path of life: her beloved husband, Paul Downs, of Oxford, Mississippi; one son, Mark Downs, of Oxford, Mississippi; two grandchildren, Anne Elise Downs and Deacon Downs, of Oxford, Mississippi; two sisters, Janet Davis of Oxford, Mississippi, and Karen Bryan and her husband Dave of Loxahatchee, Florida. The loved ones who departed from this life before her include her father and mother, Aaron Curtis Williams and Carolyn Levenstein Williams, and one sister, Carolyn Faye Williams. In place of traditional flowers the family has requested that donations be given to the following organizations: Samaritan's Purse (https://tinyurl.com/vs5wfvct) or French Camp Academy (https://tinyurl.com/3wf76dy5). Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford staff is honored to serve the family during this challenging season of life. Online condolences may be left on her Tribute Wall at www.colemanfuneralhome.com

Dianne Williams Downs

June 30, 1946 - October 16, 2024

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