PICTURE ROCKS - Archie S. Downey Jr. was recalled Sunday by his relatives, friends and neighbors as a man who was always there to lend a hand, to talk, to get the job done right.
Downey, a resident of Huntersville, died in April at age 88, but he will not be forgotten.
Several dozen people gathered at the Allegheny Grange near his home to dedicate a new flagpole in his honor.
Following the dedication, they gathered inside the Grange building to share stories of Downey, a retired Navy chief flight engineer.
Born in West Virginia, Downey grew up in Grimesville, just outside Williamsport.
He joined the military during World War II.
His brother, Bernie Downey, said among Archie's duties during his military career was to help search for Soviet submarines off the east coast of the U.S.
It was a career, he said, that allowed Archie to see much of the world.
After retiring from the military, Downey flew for Trans World Airlines for another 20 years before retiring to his farm.
"He was a very caring, sensitive guy," Bernie said.
And, he was always helping somebody out, he added.
Bernie's wife, Elizabeth Downey, recalled how Archie looked after some of the elderly people in the community.
Others fondly recalled the conversations they had with Archie over the years, which could be about any topic, including stories about his military career.
Susan Downey, a niece and neighbor, referred to him as a warm and welcoming person.
"He always wanted to talk. He always wanted to lend a hand," she said.
Others recalled his faith.
His brother said although Archie was not a church-goer, he was a believer.
"He was a quiet guy, but he could talk to anybody," he added.
In 1998, Archie was recognized by the Grange as its Community Citizen of the Year.
