Harry Sims Downs

Harry Sims Downs, 91, Chancellor Emeritus of the University System of Georgia, founding president and President Emeritus of Clayton State University died peacefully at home on January 3 after a brief illness. He was born to Mae Belle Sims and Louis Charles Downs on October 5, 1925, in Conyers, Georgia. He is survived by his beloved wife, Melba Kicklighter Downs; daughters Nancy Rambin (Alan), Rebecca Williams (Kevin), Harriet Ike (David); and grandchildren Austin (Dana), Adam, and Andrew Rambin; Johnson (Amy), Zachary, Kathleen, and Harrison Williams; John David, Anna, Hampton and Anders Ike. A service celebrating Harry's life will be held Saturday, January 7, 2017, 11:00 AM, at the Conyers Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to either Conyers Presbyterian Church Harry Downs Memorial Fund or The Clayton State University Foundation to Benefit Spivey Hall, 2000 Clayton State Blvd., Morrow, GA 30260. In December of 1943, Harry earned his junior college diploma from North Georgia College and was honored as the Outstanding Cadet Officer. He then reached his goal of attaining his Naval Aviator Wings before his 21st birthday. During World War II he served in the Pacific Theater as a Navy Air Corps fighter pilot, Hellrazor Bombing Squadron Eighty-One, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Princeton. Hence, the lifelong passion and love for flying was born. After the war, Harry continued his education at the University of Georgia, earning a B.S.Ed. in mathematics and science in1949 and a M.Ed. in 1950. Harry was awarded an Ed. D. from Michigan State University in 1962. Clayton State University honored Dr. Downs with an honorary doctorate in 2010. Devoted to the pursuit of knowledge and academic excellence, Harry began his career as a teacher/counselor at Crawford County High School in Roberta, Georgia, and in the summers 1951-1961 as interim instructor at both University of Georgia and Michigan State University. A visionary in his field, Harry worked as a consultant for the California Testing Bureau 1955-1960 where he guided and helped set the standards for schools and colleges throughout the southeastern states. He joined the University System of Georgia in the capacity of Associate Director of Guidance and Testing and Director of Junior College Operations. He was then appointed Assistant Vice Chancellor, where, among other things, he worked to create a seamless evolution from junior college credit transfer to senior colleges throughout the system. As 1969 came to a close, Harry was approached by then Chancellor George Simpson about the planning and building of a junior college in Morrow, Georgia. Harry played an instrumental role in every facet of the operation from building techniques to landscape planning. With a passion for student achievement, he led the college community. Under President Harry Downs's leadership, Clayton State University (as it is currently known) established a four- year nursing program, a stellar continuing education program, a successful athletic program, and the world renowned concert venue, Spivey Hall. Harry retired to his beloved community, Conyers, Georgia, where his passion for education continued. He remained a member of The Ty Cobb Education Foundation and The Walter and Emilie Spivey Foundation until his death. Harry fulfilled a lifetime of goals and achievements. He truly lived a wonderful life. Condolences may be submitted on-line at www.scotward.com. Scot Ward Funeral Services, 699 American Legion Road, Conyers, GA 30012, 770-483-7216.

Harry Sims Downs

October 5, 1925 - January 3, 2017