William R. "Bill" Davis, Jr.

William R. Davis Jr., “Bill,” passed away on September 4, 2021 after a short and valiant battle with COVID-19 despite being fully vaccinated and taking all the necessary precautions.

Bill was born and raised in Tampa, Florida. After high school, he followed in the footsteps of his father and served in the U.S. Army. He served honorably during the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of Sergeant. After the war, he moved to Chattanooga where he worked in maintenance and with the Hamilton County Sherriff’s Department for over 20 years.

He was a man of many talents, including the ability to fix anything from engines to appliances. His knowledge was vast and he was always eager to share it with others, especially his daughter. He also derived great pride from hard work and spent the weeks leading up to his illness building a deck on the family home.

An avid nature-lover, his favorite activities were camping and exploring the outdoors with his family. Many wonderful memories were made in his favorite place, Cades Cove. He had a soft spot for all animals and enjoyed bird watching from his front porch. Bill was also a huge fan of the Tennessee Volunteers, despite their last decade of disappointment.

Bill was known for his warm personality and great sense of humor. A fiercely loyal and devoted man, he would do anything for those he loved and respected no matter the cost to himself. He leaves behind many heartbroken and devastated people including: his wife of 47 years, Alice, his adoring daughter Stevie Michelle, his sister Vera Tank (Jeff), other extended family, as well as his lifelong friend, Steve Kirkpatrick. He was reunited with his parents, William R. and Eloise Davis, as well as many beloved family pets.

Bill will be laid to rest with a private graveside service at Chattanooga National Cemetery.