William H. Downing of Reading, a tireless advocate for the legalization of cannabis, dedicated environmentalist, and devoted father, passed away Saturday June 21. He was 67.

William was born in Greenwich Ct., raised in Newtown Ct., the son of the late William D and Carolyn Hawley Dowing. He earned his bachelors degree from Babson College.

A respected leader in the movement for cannabis legalization, William spent more than three decades championing marijuana reform. As a longtime member and former president of MassCann (Massachusetts Cannabis Reform Coalition), his voice became a powerful force for change. He believed deeply in the right to compassionate care and in the need to dismantle the stigma surrounding cannabis. 

Beyond his activism, William was someone who loved nature. A proud member of the Appalachian Mountain Club’s 4,000-Footer Club, he hiked every peak over 4,000 feet in the Appalachian range. Some of his most cherished memories came from camping trips with his friends and family.

William was predeceased by his loving wife, the late Heather (Snow) Downing, and is survived by his beloved children Freya Downing and William Downing, his partner Ellen Moore, many family members, fellow activists, and many friends who will continue to carry forward the ideals he lived by.

A celebration of Williams’s life and legacy will be private and at the convenience of his family. Donations in his memory may be made to MassCann or to a conservation trust of your choice—two causes that defined his journey and spirit.**Arrangements are by the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, Burlington.