Reta Lamb Downs

Our Mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away on April 9, 2024, 16 days after her 93rd birthday.

She was born to Lorin Suel and Avon Lee Lamb on March 24th, 1931.  She was 2nd to the youngest of 6 children.

She was an extraordinary lady with family heritage and traditions running deep in her heart and actions, not to mention a feisty side, later to serve her well in her survived battle with cancer. 

She married Robert K. Downs in the Logan Temple on November 9, 1950. She and Robert planted their roots in Hyde Park where they started their family, she was a military generated single mom for the first year and a half while her husband was deployed in Germany.  As her family grew, she did an amazing job of connecting her kids (and their subsequent families) to that of her and Robert’s extended families and the legacy they provided.

She incorporated family traditions into annual events throughout the years; from Sunday evening patio snack n’ chats, Valentine treats, Easter picnics,  4th of July reunions at Cherry Hill, 24th of July Parades, traditional turkey dinners with her signature gravy, or family Christmas parties centered in Christ.  She made sure throughout the months to bring her family together for conversation and bonding.  If all families were supported like hers, the world would be irrevocably better.

She loved and supported her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren frequently attending uncountable school events, sporting games, and other hobby activities, always expressing positive sentiments afterward.  She was a fervent fan of the Utah Jazz and all Utah based college teams.  The family still wonders if the Jazz would have a title if coach Sloan had received her advice.

Her testimony of the savior was pure, we never doubted her loyalties or conviction.  To which, she faithfully served as a disciple of the savior in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  She will forever hold a special place in our hearts and be missed!

She is survived by her: brother Lew Lamb ( Kathy); children, Brent (Kathy) Downs, son- in-law Dennis Darley, Sue (Michael) Grunig, Dorothy (Doug) Corbridge, Jennifer (Mark) Stephens;17 grandchildren; 39 great grandchildren; and 2 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert Downs; daughter, Barbara Darley; granddaughter, Melinda Downs; her parents Lorin and Avon; 4 siblings Marigene, Richard, Ann, and Helen.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at 12 noon at the North Park 7th Ward Chapel, 65 E Center St. Hyde Park, with a viewing prior from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. Interment to follow at the Hyde Park Cemetery.

Those who would like to livestream the funeral service may use the following link: CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE