Ralph Aaron Downs III,Esteemed Lawyer and Veteran,Dies at 78
springfield,MO – July 1,2025 – Ralph Aaron Downs III,a distinguished lawyer,U.S. Army veteran, and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri, at the age of 78. Born January 30, 1947, in Mobile, Alabama, Downs leaves behind a legacy of service, intellectual curiosity, and a dedication to helping others.
Downs’ early life was marked by movement and a deep connection to New Orleans, where he spent his first five years before relocating with his parents to Fort Smith, Arkansas.He maintained a lifelong fondness for the city, frequently returning for visits. He graduated from Northside high School in 1965 and went on to earn a bachelor of Arts degree with Honors from the University of Arkansas in 1969.
His commitment to service led him to the U.S. Army, where he served from 1970-1973, stationed in Germany and England. Following his military service, Downs pursued higher education, leveraging the G.I. Bill to further his academic pursuits. He achieved a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Ball State University,conducted postgraduate research and lectured at the University of Southampton,and taught psychology courses at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.Driven by a desire to further advocate for others, Downs ultimately turned to law, earning a Juris Doctor degree from the UALR William H. Bowen School of Law in 1993. He practiced law diligently until late in life, consistently prioritizing the needs of his clients.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Downs was a man of diverse interests. He enjoyed spending time in nature, riding motorcycles, creating art, gardening, practicing martial arts, studying history, and immersing himself in music. He possessed a refined palate, appreciating good food, fine wine, and, notably, chocolate. Known for his gregarious nature and storytelling ability,Downs effortlessly forged connections with those he met.
ralph Downs is survived by his daughters, Charlotte Downs (Michael McAfee) and Martine Downs Pollard (David); son, Ralph downs IV; grandchildren, Denise Pollard and Nelson Pollard; brother, John Downs; step-siblings, Harriet McElroy (John), Wayne Nelson (Cheryl), Keith Nelson, Gilmer Nelson, Susan Penick (Carroll), and Cindy Wage (Olin); and his loving partner, Mary Bennett. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. ralph A. Downs and Katherine Simmons Nelson, and brothers, Andy Downs and Richard Downs.
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