Steven J Downey

Steven J. Downey, beloved husband, father, grandfather, coach, teacher, and friend, passed away on August 6, 2026, leaving a legacy of unconditional love and mentorship.

Steve was born on April 22, 1951, in Payson, Utah, to Jimmie Dean and Merle Lucille Bean Downey. Raised in Benjamin, he graduated from Spanish Fork High School in 1969 as a standout four-sport athlete. He played baseball at Snow College, earning All-American honors and being named Man of the Year, before graduating from Brigham Young University with a degree in education. From 1971 to 1973, he faithfully served an LDS mission in Mexico City, later serving in many callings, including bishop. Steve truly lived the gospel, quietly welcoming anyone needing a refuge into his home.

Steve dedicated 30 years to Orem High School as a Spanish and PE teacher, coach, and athletic director, followed by 12 years as athletic director at Salem Hills High School. He mentored thousands of students and athletes, teaching discipline and self-belief. His coaching extended to his own children, spending countless hours throwing batting practice and immersing himself in their interests.

He met his wife, Maria Michele (Michele) Miner Downey, at BYU. They married on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1979, just three weeks after meeting, building a beautiful 47-year partnership of mutual support and shared love for golf and family travel. They were best friends and supported each other throughout their life together. As a hands-on grandfather, Steve delighted in getting hugs, playing on the floor, teaching sports, and performing card tricks. He took pride in his roses, held a deep loyalty to loved ones, and kept life in perspective with his favorite reminder: “It’s only money.”

Steve is survived by his wife, Michele; children, Derek Downey (Jen), Danielle Ryan (Chas), Devrie Tonga (Beni), and Delyse Downey (Myca); 12 grandchildren, Kali Leonardson (Garrett), Carsen Ryan (Jayne), Lexi Downey, Dominic Downey, Zaxen Downey, Gabriella Ryan, Grace Tonga, Collyns Ryan, Rockwell Ryan, Timani Tonga, Sawyer Downey, and Raygan Downey; great-grandson, Tommy Leonardson; and his siblings, Gary, Mike, Jeanette, and Carolyn. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, John, Brent, and Merle Ann.

His greatest gift was his time, given freely to all he loved.

Steve will be deeply missed by his family, friends, students, athletes, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was a life well lived, and his greatest legacy will always be the people he loved.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

An evening viewing will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 80 South 280 East, Orem. Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., also at the church, with a viewing held that morning from 9-10:30 a.m. prior to the services. Interment will be in the East Lawn Memorial Hills Cemetery, 4800 North East Lawn Drive (650 East), Provo, Utah.

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page.

For those unable to attend the services in person, you may view the Livestream HERE