Anthony Vincent Downer

Anthony Vincent "Vinny" "Tony" Downer, age 79, of Roswell, Georgia, passed away on April 24, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with prostate cancer.

Born on November 19, 1946, in Columbus, Georgia, Anthony-known lovingly as Vinny or Tony to family and friends-lived a life marked by dedication, faith, and service to others. After moving from Georgia and settling in New Jersey, he graduated from high school in Brick Township before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy, where he trained in airplane electronics.

In 1967, he married the love of his life, Nina, beginning a 59-year partnership built on love, faith, and enduring commitment. Together, they were a steady example to others of devotion, grace, and lifelong companionship.

Following his military service, Anthony built a successful career in electronics and management. His strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish and operate two successful businesses before eventually retiring. In 1985, he made Roswell, Georgia his home, where he remained for over four decades.

Anthony was an avid reader who was often found with a book in his hands, completely absorbed in whatever world the author had created. He was also a lifelong fan of military aircraft and especially loved watching the Blue Angels perform. He enjoyed traveling and visiting historical locations, including a particularly meaningful tour of Israel with a group from Johnson Ferry Baptist Church-an experience that remained close to his heart.

In retirement, Anthony devoted himself to the things he loved most-his faith, his family, and serving others. His passion for sharing the message of Jesus Christ was evident in his mission work, his personal study, and his role as a Sunday school teacher at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta.

Anthony was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvia Lee Shavor and Ernest Poole Downer, stepfather, John Carlton Shavor, stepmother, Evelyn Rees Downer, and his brother John Shavor.

He is survived by his wife, Nina Downer; his children, Heather MacMullan and Kevin Downer (Lisa); nine grandchildren, Gregory MacMullan, Julianne MacMullan Huth, Jonathan MacMullan, Caroline MacMullan, Benjamin MacMullan, Nicholas MacMullan, Dylan Downer, Kayden Downer, and Foster Downer; and two great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sisters, Manina Roman and Wanda Many; and brothers Charles Downer, Ronald Downer, and Donald Downer, along with many nieces and nephews.

Anthony will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his generous spirit, and the love he shared with those around him. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his kindness, mentorship, and unwavering devotion.

Funeral Service will be held 11:00 am, Friday, May 1, 2026 at West Cobb Funeral Home and Crematory in Marietta, Georgia. Private burial will be held at a later date.

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose trust is the Lord." - Jeremiah 17:7