Biography:
Robert Cheatham Downie, Jr. died in Little Rock on May 13, 2019. Born on March 4, 1951, Robert was the son of Robert Cheatham Downie and Virginia Pattillo Downie and the grandson of Edward Blake and Helen Harley Downie and James Anderson and Annette Stillwell Pattillo.
Robert attended Little Rock public schools, graduating from Hall High in 1969. He attended Vanderbilt University and later earned his C.P.A. degree, working in Dillard’s corporate offices for 35 years.
Robert was a devoted member of Fellowship Bible Church. He volunteered his accounting services at Little Rock Christian Academy and was a regular and enthusiastic participant in activities of the Bridge House, where he developed life-long friendships. An avid sports fan, Robert favored the Razorbacks and the Green Bay Packers. Perhaps his most unique passion was traveling around the country riding roller coasters as a member of the American Coaster Enthusiasts.
Robert had a keen sense of humor and enjoyed spending time with his Downie and Pattillo cousins -- most recently at a family gathering in Monteagle, Tennessee. Robert is survived by his sister, Margaret Howell Downie of Phoenix and first cousins Ned Downie, James Carvell (Nell), Glenn Ellen Downie, Helen Harrison (Fred), George Talbot (Ann), Nelia Talbot Fletcher, Downie Talbot (Catherine), Katherine Downie, Ann Hutchings Campbell (Stuart), Thomas Harley Hutchings (Bibi), Beth Brothers, Susan Pattillo Nichols, Janet Pattillo Rash (Robert), James Pattillo III, John Spradling, Jim Spradling (Valerie), and Philip Spradling.
A celebration of Robert’s life will be held at Fellowship Bible Church, 1401 Kirk Road, at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2019. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Pulaski County Humane Society or to a favorite charity. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com