Joseph Matthew Davis Sr.

Joseph Matthew Davis Sr. January 31, 1928 – May 22, 2026 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Joseph Matthew Davis Sr., who received his wings on May 22, 2026, at the age of 98. Joseph was surrounded by the warmth of his daughter Joann’s home in Patterson, California as he transitioned from this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication. Born on January 31, 1928, in Kenton, Ohio, Joseph was the cherished son of Joe Davis and Ernestine Worthington. He was predeceased by many beloved family members, including his grandparents Robert and Sarah Worthington, parents Joe and Ernestine Davis, sister Katherine Fleming, spouses Dorothy Davis Clark, Esther Newton Davis, and Thelma Hilliard Davis, children Renee Middleton, Edna Elrod, and Joseph Matthew Davis Jr., Anthony Henderson, Son n law Daniel Morgan, grandchildren Ellis Middleton, Ernest Daniels, and Trueth Journei Braggs. Despite these losses, Joseph's life was enriched by the love of his surviving family: his devoted wife, Lillie Mae Davis, and his dear sister Saundra Louise Goosby. He was the proud father of Joann Brown(Wendell Brown), Violet Morgan, Jacqueline Thomas(Joel Thomas), Geraldine Malbrough, Peggy Williams(Richard Williams), Elmira Marshall(Ed Marshall), and Graydon A. Henderson, and cherished by his cousin Gary Worthington(Angie Worthington)and son n law Charles Middleton. His legacy continues through his grandchildren Deshane Middleton, Lenzy Wash Jr.,Theodis Daniels Jr.,Andre White, Jenard Thomas, Wendell Brown, Tonya Wash, Lanise Jamerson, Amber Gause, Daniel Morgan Jr.,Evelyn Harrison, Ebony Edwards, Myisha White, Tiffany Collin’s, Sade’ Thomas, Kerri Henderson, Marquita Williams, Kyle Williams and 35 great-grandchildren. Others to cherish his memories includes extended family, cousins and friends. Joseph's life was a testament to dedication and service. He graduated from Central High School in Lima at the age of 16 and joined the U.S. Navy during World War II. His bravery and skill were exemplified by his service in Task Force 57 in Japan. Joseph served in the Korean and Vietnam wars. In 1959 he entered the Buds program as an “underwater demolition team member” for UDT-11 which change in 1962 to become “Seal Team 11” Demolition Unit “Explosives”. Joseph served in the Army’s and Navy’s warfare specialist “Frogman” “Beach Jumpers”. He later work as an Electronics Warfare Expert and Instructor. After his military service, Joseph continued to serve his country as a civilian federal contractor, where he held various technical positions and contributed significantly to national defense. Beyond his professional achievements, Joseph was a man of great personal character. His kindness, generosity, and quiet strength were felt by all who knew him. He was an avid fisherman, a lover of horses, and a man who found joy in camping and exploring the great outdoors. His gentle smile and protective nature made him a beloved figure in both his family and community. Joseph's life was marked by love and partnership, having been married four times. He first married Thelma Ree Hilliard in 1951, with whom he had six children. His subsequent marriages to Dorothy L. McNeal, Esther Newton, and finally Lillie Mae Henderson brought him additional children and joy. Each union was a testament to his enduring capacity for love and commitment. Rest in peace, Joseph. Your journey has been long and full, and now you are home. In honoring his wishes, a celebration of his life will be held on June 23, 2026. We invite all who knew him to join us in remembering the incredible life of Joseph Matthew Davis Sr., a man who touched the hearts of many and whose legacy will continue to inspire us all.