In Loving Memory of Yvonne Custis Downing

Yvonne Custis Downing was beautiful—inside and out—with a warm, genuine smile that welcomed you the moment she saw you. Dynamic and full of energy, she lit up every room she entered.

Yvonne passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, joining her parents, Nan Buck Custis and Levin Francell Custis, Jr., and other beloved family and friends who went before her.

She was born in Suffolk, Virginia, the first child of her parents. When she was just a baby, her father gave her the nickname "Sportie," a name that stayed with her—and suited her—all her life. Growing up, she began her Christian journey early as a member of East End Baptist Church, attended the city's public schools, and studied piano from childhood. At East Suffolk High School, she added the saxophone in the band and served as co-captain of the cheerleading squad.

After high school, Yvonne went on to Morgan State College (now Morgan State University), where she earned a degree in Sociology. There, alongside her lifelong best friend Fran, she formed friendships with Millicent, Faye, and Muriel—women who would remain close as “The Sportin’ Crew” for the rest of her life. After college, she returned home to begin a career as a social worker.

Marriage and motherhood came next, bringing a daughter, Carmen, and later a son, Conway (“CAD”). Family life carried Yvonne from Virginia to Cambridge, Massachusetts, then to Charlottesville, Richmond, Newport News, and New York City, before the family settled in Newport News for good. Along the way she continued her social work, discovered her calling in the classroom, and earned her Master of Education from Virginia Commonwealth University through the Teacher Corps Program.

In Newport News, Yvonne built her career with Newport News Public Schools, where she taught and served as a Reading Specialist, helping countless young readers find their footing and their confidence. She remained with the school system until her retirement. Her faith remained a constant as well, and she was a member of Carver Memorial Presbyterian Church in Newport News.

Never one to sit still, Yvonne co-founded SY and Company catering with her dear friend Shauna Epps, a business the two women built and enjoyed together before deciding, in time, to move on to new pursuits.

Acting was another of her passions, carried from the Ira Aldridge Players at Morgan State to community theater productions including Purlie! and Jesus Christ Superstar(alongside her son, CAD).

Yvonne gave generously of her time to the causes and communities she cared about, holding membership in the National Education Association, the Newport News Education Association, Local 4260 AFL-CIO, and the Newport News Chapter of The Girl Friends, Inc.

In her later years, Yvonne was cared for with devotion by her daughter, Carmen, and her caregiver, Betty Patterson.

As it is often said, the measure of a person is not what they take with them, but what they leave behind. Yvonne leaves behind a legacy of warmth, resilience, and a smile that no one who knew her will ever forget.

She is survived by her daughter, Carmen Downing (William Thomas); her son, Conway Downing, III (Farrell Redwine); her brother, Levin Custis, III (Debra); grandchildren, Austin Redwine Downing, Grayson DesVerney Downing, and Parker Yvonne Thomas; nephews, Levin Custis, IV, Lawrence Custis, Lance Custis, Landen Custis, and Walter Peyton, V; former husband, Conway Downing, Jr.; sisters-in-law Paula Peyton and Sharon Johnson; cousin Saundra Boatwright, who was like a sister to her; special friend and caregiver Betty Patterson; and a host of cousins, family, and dear friends.

Viewing will be from 3-6 pm on Friday, July 24, 2026 at the funeral home. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.