James Warren Downs Jr., died unexpectedly at home on Saturday, April 11, 2009. Jim was born on February 10, 1961 to James and Annie (Smith) Downs. Jim lived in Gardiner most of his life and attended Gardiner Area High School. He spent most of his adult life working as a carpenter in the construction industry.Recently, James lived with his wife, Barbara, on High Holborn St. in Gardiner and spent as many hours as possible hunting and fishing, his favorite past times. He was very proud of his two sons, James III and Jonathan and spent many hours enjoying the outdoors with them. He beamed when his eldest son was born on his birthday in 1984 and shared his name. He was blessed with a granddaughter, Natalie Sophia Downs on March 13, 2009, born to James III and Amanda Latno. He was excited to be present for her birth and he proudly showed her pictures to everyone.Jim was happiest spending time with friends and family and always had his beloved dogs with him. He was filled with life and loved living it, and was well known for the roaring laugh that resonated from his belly. Summers were often spent on an island in the Kennebec that he affectionately called 'Fiddlehead', surrounded by the people that he cared about. Jim was most comfortable in his jeans and suspenders and loved being at barbecues, pig roasts, and family gatherings. Jim enjoyed watching the History and Science Channels and never stopped educating himself about the world that he lived in. He constantly challenged himself in front of Jeopardy and seldom lost at the game.Jim is survived by his second wife, Barbara, his sons, James III and Jonathan and their families. He will also be sadly missed by his brother and sisters: Jack Downs Sr., Mary MacMaster, Shannon Downs, Stacie Guzman, and Tracie Travers and their families. Jim was also adored by his extended family and kept close contact with his aunts, uncles and cousins, particularly Sallie and Burt Curtis and Roger and Rochelle Downs. He also had many friends over the years that he considered family including his sons' mother, Belinda Guyon.Jim was predeceased by his parents James and Annie and will be laid to rest with them at the Whitefield Cemetery until he returns to his Lord. A memorial service will be held at the Whitefield Cemetery on Rt. 218 in Kings Mills on Friday, April 17, 2009 at 11:00 a.m., followed by a celebration of Jim's life to be held at Mary MacMaster's residence, at 176 Spears Corner Road, West Gardiner. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a scholarship fund for Natalie Downs at Downeast Credit Union, 20 Main Street, Bowdoinham, Me 04008.