Keith L. Downing - Obituary

eith “Gunny” Leonard Downing, aged 64, of Edgewater, MD, passed away peacefully after a year-long battle with cancer on July 12, 2026. Keith was born on February 18, 1962, in Bucks County, PA. Keith was a loving family man who took great pride in his duties as a husband, a father, and a grandfather. He dedicated well over 40 years to public service, beginning with his enlistment in the United States Marine Corps at age 17. A member of the “Striking Ninth” Marine Corps regiment, he continued to dedicate himself to his family and his country, eventually earning the rank of Gunnery Sergeant and the lifelong nickname, “Gunny.” After his military career, he went on to earn recognition through his hard work as a firefighter and paramedic in the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, retiring in 2020 after 24 years of saving lives. Keith is predeceased by his father, Clark Downing, and his mother, Dolores Czajka. Keith is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Vicky; his children, Amanda (Harley), Keith (Rob), Kayla (Phil), and Benjamin; his three precious grandchildren, Tyler, Colten, and Bennett; his mother-in-law, Lois; and his siblings, Clark “Butch,” Colleen (Mark), Genny (Stan), Garry (Jana), Jon “Scott,” Lori (Duane), and William “Chris” (Tina). Family and friends are invited to celebrate Keith's life on Thursday, July 23, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.