Gabriel Scott "Gabe" Downard, age 46, of Wellston, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024, at The Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio.  He was born August 14, 1977 in Gallipolis, Ohio to Richard Scott Downard and Tanya Elaine McClure Downard.  Gabe graduated from Wellston High School with the class of 1997 and was employed at Speyside Bourbon Cooperage in Jackson.  Gabe was a loving, caring, empathetic and forgiving person who enjoyed life.  He loved spending time with family, especially Kristy and his grandchildren.  Gabe also enjoyed going out to eat, shopping, and watching NASCAR.  He is survived by his longtime companion, Kristy Alexander; children, Brittany Lowe (Roger), Gage Downard, Emily Goheen, and Jayla Alexander; grandchildren, Lennox Lowe, Kynlie Griffith, Kolesen Griffith, and one on the way; father and step-mother, Scott and Tami Downard; siblings, Koty Yates (Matt), Whitney Downard, Kane Downard, Darcy Perkins (Chris) and Blake Downard (Samie); along with several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  Gabe was preceded in death by his mother, Tanya Downard; and his grandparents, Dick and Helen Downard and Raymond and Judith McClure.  A private graveside service will be held Tuesday, February 6th, at Ridgewood Cemetery in Wellston.  Arrangements are under the direction of the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.