Charles "Mike" Downen

Charles Michael “Mike” Downen, 58, of Little Rock, Arkansas went to be with the Lord on Friday, October 21, 2022 after a long and courageous battle with renal (kidney) cancer. Mike was born to Leon and Nancy Downen on June 1, 1964 in Little Rock, AR. Mike was raised in Sheridan where he graduated high school in 1982. After graduation, Mike permanently moved to Little Rock to join the family business. 

Mike was a hard working, dedicated man, who was self-employed his entire life in the family businesses of Downen Oil, Rental, and Carwashes. He found great joy in helping others in the community. Beyond work, Mike spent his time with beloved family including their golden retriever Jaxson, who loved nighttime snuggles with dad. Mike enjoyed trips to the beach, water sports on the lakes, and being outside in nature including feeding the neighborhood critters. Mike loved his nephew Peyton Baker as if he was his own. They had a bond that will forever be cherished. Mike was one of the great ones that will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Mary Downen of Little Rock; parents, Leon and Nancy Downen of Little Rock; brother Randy Downen (Kathleen), of Bryant; along with other family and friends who will miss him deeply each day.

Visitation will be held 6:00-8:00 pm Tuesday, October 25, at Smith Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., Little Rock, AR 72205.  A Celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, October 26, at Smith Little Rock Funeral Home.  A private burial will be held in Sheridan, Arkansas.