Gerald Anthony(Tony) Downs

ALBANY- Gerald Anthony Downs passed away November 22, 2015 surrounded by his family. Gerald was the son of the late Rose Marie McKnight, Eugene Downs Senior and Rev. Clemore McKnight Senior.

Gerald was educated in the Albany Public School System. Gerald had various jobs throughout the years but his greatest love was music and singing for the Lord. Gerald played piano and organ for various churches throughout the tri-city area, Green County and all the way to Richmond, Virginia; bringing souls to Christ through is music.

Gerald is survived by five brothers, Clemor McKnight Jr. (Pearl), Chadrick McKnight, Wayne McKnight, Eugene Downs Junior of Albany, NY, and Prentice Sharpe of Ohio; three sisters, Adelaide Downs, Mary McKnight Bradley, and Verna Ralph (Collins); one God child, one God brother, four God sisters, nieces, nephews, and a host of family and friends.

Gerald was predeceased by his mother RoseMarie McKnight; his fathers, Eugene Downs Senior and Rev. Clemor McKnight Senior; two brothers, Vernon McKnight and Bobby Washington; two sisters Lela McKnight and Gwendolyn McKnight; and his life partner, Howard Stanis.

Calling hours will be held Tuesday, December 1, 2015 from 5-6 pm with a service to follow at 6pm at Wilborn Temple Church of God in Christ, 121 Jay St., Albany, NY 12210. A repast will follow the service at the church.