Bill entered heaven peacefully in Shreveport, Louisiana on May 23, 2024.  He was born on May 31, 1958, in Landstuhl, Germany. He was a resident of Coushatta, Louisiana, since 2004.

He was preceded in death by his parents Leon L. And Claudette Downing and sister, Debra Anderson.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marvella Dobbs Downing; children, Jack Matthew Harville and wife, Katrinka and Angela D. Culpepper; his sister, Deanna Bourg; six grandchildren; and several nephews and a niece.

Bill was an avid sportsman. He enjoyed being outdoors hunting all types of game as well as the many forms of fishing, from deep sea and Gulf coast floundering to lakes and mountain streams.

Bill had a wonderful work ethic. He believed in hard work. He owned ABC Construction Company while living in Houston, Tx.  After locating back to Bossier City, La., He opened Red River Water Sports which rented jet skis, boats, and barges. He then worked for James Construction for several years building bridges. Bill invented, patented, and produced The Watcher Hunting Mirror, which was featured on Channel 3's, Rick Row.

A few years ago, Bill took up the hobby of bee keeping and sold honey to local establishments.

The family would like to send a special thanks to his lifelong friends, Ricky Melancon and Mike Landry, of Bossier City, La. Also, to the friends and families of David Loftin and Ben Bryant of Coushatta, La. who welcomed us to this community.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.