Paul Downie, Sr., 77, beloved husband of Jane (Jacoby) Downie of Hanson, MA, passed away after a brave battle with COPD. Paul was predeceased by his parents Helen (Tobin) and Walter Downie, sisters Mary Johnston and Joan Zern. He will be greatly missed by his children Kim (Paul) Cornetta; Paul Jr; Thomas (Lisa); John (Laura); and James (Shannon), all of Franklin. Also survived by his stepchildren Scott Tarbox of Braintree; Sean Tarbox of Amherst and Stacey Osborn (William) of Middleborough. Loving Grampa of Dominic (Alysha), David, Christopher, Kyle, Alexandra, Danielle, Nicholas, Natalie, Lindsey, Taylor, Jake, Lydia, Jack, Luke, Autumn, Mallory, Sydney, Mary and Avery and many nieces and nephews.

Paul delighted in the opportunity to share important occasions with his large and loving family, and especially loved to spoil his many grandchildren. He was an avid Boston sports fan and especially quick to give an opinion about the Red Sox and the Patriots.

A proud member of Laborers Union 223 for 49 years, Paul spent many years as a Labor Foreman overseeing major construction in the greater Boston area, including the Moakley Federal Courthouse. In retirement, he enjoyed spending time with friends and family, and loved nothing more than sitting and reading the paper and drinking coffee while greeting neighbors on his porch in Clearwater, FL. He was the best brother-in-law in the world to his many boisterous sisters-in-law.

Paul's family would like to acknowledge the incredible care and compassion from Dr. Gerald Hayes who pulled many rabbits out of the hat right up to the end of Paul's long journey.

Visitation will be held at Leighton-MacKinnon Funeral Home, 4 West Washington St., Hanson on Friday 12/8 from 4-8 pm. A funeral service will be held Saturday morning at 10:00 am at Trinity Episcopal Church, 3 Goddard Avenue, Rockland. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Massachusetts Chapter of the American Lung Association.