Naomi V. Downing

Naomi Vivian Cushinberry Downing, age 91, closed her eyes on Sunday, July 18, 2021, in her home of 73 years. Naomi was born April 8, 1930, to Paul and Alta Cushinberry in Perry, Kansas en route to Atchison, Kansas where she lived for 91 years. Naomi was part of a large family, being the 5th born of 14 siblings comprising 5 boys and 9 girls.

Celebration of life services will be held at First Christian Church on Saturday, July 31 at 1:00 pm, with a viewing at 12:00 pm. T he family does request that masks be worn for the services.

At a very early age, Naomi followed in her mother's footsteps. She was sweet, kind, loveable, full of laughter and joy. She also picked up how to tend the house and care for others from watching and learning from her mother.

Naomi fell in love in her early teenage years with George Andrew Downing. They united in marriage February 16, 1948 and were married for 41 years. During their marriage, they welcomed 4 children, Georgia, Dwight, Sarah, and Angela. She also gained a bonus son, Steve Brown.

Naomi was big on family and friends and enjoyed company and hosting. George and Naomi's home was the place for frequent Cushinberry, Downing, Allen, and church family gatherings on many occasions.

A beautiful, caring, selfless, giving woman inside and out; she always put her faith, family, and friends before herself. Naomi lived by the word of God, being a devout and steadfast Christian and a long-time member of the 2nd Christian Church for over 75 years. She also continuously showed her love for others with cupcakes and cards.

Naomi was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Alta Cushinberry; husband, George Downing; daughter, Georgia Fulsom-Craig; 12 siblings, Pauline, Roberta, Rozeila, Paul, Imogene, Geneva, Carl, Ivan, Charles, Kathryn, Matthew, and Doris.

Naomi will be lovingly and longingly remembered by her son, Dwight Downing; daughters, Sarah Downing and Angela (Kenneth) Tyler; bonus son, Steve Brown; and sister, Phyllis Downing. She will also be deeply missed by her 15 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.