Brian Downing (18 Apr 1940 - 17 Apr 2026)

ARTHUR 'BRIAN' DOWNING

Passed away on 17th April 2026 aged 85 years.

Arthur Brian Downing, known to everyone as Brian, was born on 18th April 1940 in Launceston. He was one of ten children born to Tim and Violet, and he grew up with his family at Northernhaye Court in Launceston.

On 29th October 1960, Brian married Norma, beginning a lifelong partnership and together they raised five children — Julie, Eric, Adrian, Lorraine, and Anthony — who went on to have families of their own. Brian and Norma were proud grandparents to eleven grandchildren and great-grandparents to seven great-grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Brian held a variety of jobs. He worked at the carpet factory in Launceston, at The White Hart, and in other hotels across Newquay and Truro. He also spent time as a steward in the Merchant Navy, travelling the world and visiting places such as the South Pacific, Australasia, and South Africa. Later, he became a delivery driver for Goodbodys, bringing bread and baked goods to communities across North Cornwall.

A keen sports enthusiast, Brian enjoyed watching Plymouth Argyle play at Home Park. His greatest sporting passion, however, was horse racing. From attending pony racing at Tintagel in his younger days to following flat racing later in life, he was a devoted fan. His hero was the legendary jockey Lester Piggott, whom he admired greatly.

In 1998, Brian and Norma returned to Cornwall, settling in South Petherwin where they enjoyed their bungalow and years holidaying with the wider family.

Later in life, Brian took up golf and became a regular at Launceston Golf Club, where he enjoyed taking part in inter-club competitions.

Brian passed away on 17th April 2026, just one day before what would have been his 86th birthday.

This is a private family funeral with family flowers only. Please feel free to donate to The Injured Jockeys Fund (link above) in memory of Brian.