JOE WILLIE DAVIS SR.

Joe Willie Davis was born on September 25, 1945, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to the late Willie Davis and Eva Davis, who preceded him in death. At an early age, Joe accepted Christ and became a member of Calvary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. H. C. Dillworth in Corpus Christi, Texas. He attended George Washington Carver Elementary School and Solomon Coles High School. Joe lived a full life and had many interests. He was very active in sports and especially enjoyed fishing, but baseball was his true passion. He was also a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan. Joe was an avid gardener who took great pride in what he grew, and every year, he made sure to plant his watermelons—a tradition he truly enjoyed. Joe shared more than 60 years of marriage with his loving wife, Mary Davis. The two married in their teenage years and spent a lifetime growing together and figuring out life side by side. Through the many challenges and obstacles they faced, their love and commitment to one another remained constant. Mary faithfully stood by Joe, caring for him through sickness and in health, and together they built a life centered around love, family, and devotion to one another. To their union, two sons were born, Joe Davis Jr. and Jerold Davis. Together, Joe and Mary were loving and devoted parents who built a strong foundation for their family. Family was at the center of Joe’s life. He was a loving and active grandfather to Jaelin Davis, Brandon Jiles, Jerold “Little” Davis, and TJ (Tyler) Davis, as well as a devoted great-grandfather to Makayla and Kai Jiles. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly the loves of his life. That love was returned wholeheartedly. During his illness, his grandchildren remained close by his side, spending many nights caring for and comforting him both at home and during his time in the hospital. Joe was also the loving younger brother of Pearlie Payne. Joe and Pearlie shared a special and close bond throughout their lives. They were always there for one another, caring for and comforting each other through sickness, sadness, and life’s many challenges. Throughout his life, Joe formed many lasting friendships. Although many of those dear friends went before him, he kept their memories alive by sharing stories of their times together with his family. Joe leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who loved him dearly. While his presence will be deeply missed, there is comfort in knowing that he is reunited in Heaven with his parents and loved ones who went before him—laughing, singing, and, undoubtedly, fishing once again.