Durward Emmett ‘Dude’ Downes, Jr., 73, of Covington, died Saturday, November 18, 2023, at his residence.

He was born October 18, 1950, in Alleghany County, a son of late Durward E. Downes, Sr and Pauline McDaniel Downes. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in by brother-in-law, Kendall Dolan.

Dude retired from VDOT after 39 years of service.  He was an avid hunter and gardener.

Surviving are his sister, Rhonda Dolan of Covington, and brother Kenny (Patti) Downes, of Clifton Forge; one nephew, Mike (Amy Fridley) Knick; two nieces,  Amie (Travis) Bond and Beverley (Tony) Bowers; great-nieces and nephews, Jakob Knick, Luna Knick, Samantha (Marshall) McCullough, Taylor (Dakota) Cordle, Peyton Rogers, Lucus Rogers, Kallista Hoke; two special friends, Wayne Howard and Robert Crawford; and also his dog, Jenny.

In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, November 22, 2023 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Arritt Funeral Home.

Arrangements are entrusted to Arritt Funeral Home.

Online condolences can be made to arrittfuneralhome.com.