RODNEY MICHAEL DOWNS, SR. passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025, at Kaiser South Sacramento. He was 84.
Born May 7, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Enville Downs and Joyce Lucille Lomax (nee Dancer), and his sister, Pamela Jan Downs.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 37 years, Sa-Rah Bibbins-Downs; his children, Rodney (“Ric”) Michael Downs, Jr., Angela Jan Lawrence, Kimi Harris, and Derek Maru Downs; bonus son Chaim Dunbar; and many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Rodney attended Loyola High School in Los Angeles before moving to Sacramento in 1956, where he graduated from Bishop Armstrong High School. He later attended the University of Southern California and Cal State Los Angeles.
A lifelong coach and mentor, Rodney coached track and field at LA Southwest College, Cal State LA, and Sacramento City College, where he also served as Head of the Orientation Department. Throughout his career, he coached numerous NCAA champions and professional athletes, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students.
Rodney was known for his warmth, leadership, and ability to make people feel seen and valued.
More than a coach, he was a mentor who gave young people hope, purpose, and belief in themselves. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched.
The family of Rodney Michael Downs, Sr. extends heartfelt gratitude for all expressions of love and support during this time.