Karl Melvin Downs, age 90, was born in Texarkana, Texas on September 22, 1922. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. A thoughtful and caring person, he never met a stranger. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty Downs, daughter Karla Ferguson (son-in-law Danny), son Dr. Leslie Downs, grandson Jason Brown (wife Crystal and great-granddaughter Jillian Brown), and granddaughter Allison Brown. Mr. Downs had a love for gospel music. As a young man he sang in gospel quartets in Texarkana. After moving to Shreveport, he served as the music director for Grace Baptist Church for a number of years and later sang in the choir at Brookwood Baptist church. Memorial services will be 11 AM Saturday at the Barksdale Baptist Church with Bro. Calvin Hubbard officiating.