John "Buddy" Edward Davis Sr.

John “Buddy” Edward Davis Sr. age 80 passed away peacefully on January 1st, 2023, after a lengthy illness.  He was born in Laurel, Mississippi to the late Lillie Lavon Gore-Hinton and the late John Davis. John was raised by his late mother and her husband, the late Lavon Hinton Sr.

John confessed Christ at an early age. In his early years John was a faithful member of Shiloh Baptist Church where he was an active member of the male choir and served as head of Transportation Ministry.  John later joined Greater Bethlehem Temple Church where he was a proud member and enjoyed worshipping with his family and friends.

John honorably served in the United States Navy for four years and defended his country in the Vietnam War.  He was employed at Weil McClain for 20 years until the company was dissolved and then worked at Hammermill Paper Company and retired after 23 years.  He was an avid bowler, enjoyed fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren. John was known for his wit and incredible knowledge of history past and present. He was a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan!

In addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by his son John Edward Davis Jr, brothers Grady Davis Sr, Lavon Hinton Jr, Roy Hinton Sr, sisters Willie Lee Gore and Mary Helen Morris.

John leaves to cherish fond memories and is survived by his wife of 35 years Betty Tate whom he affectionately called “Betty Jean my Queen.”  He is also survived by his sons Antonio Tate (Cheryl), Eugene “Jawan” Walker, Garry Flemmings and Marcus Davis, daughters Theresa Davis, Pamela Davis, Jaclyn Davis, and a niece whom he raised Danetra Tate Anousinh (Joey), sisters Debra Hinton, Dessiree Bean (Mack) and Louise Davis and brothers Wesley Davis (Betty) and Rothelle Selby, along with 18 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored, and a host of nieces, great-nieces, nephews, great-nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Monday January 9th, 2023, at Greater Bethlehem Temple Church 4103 Washington Ave Erie, PA from 10am-12pm. Funeral will begin promptly at 12pm.  Burial to follow at Erie Cemetery with full Military Honors.

 Arrangements are being handled by Davis-Garr Cremation and Funeral Services, Inc. 459 East 12th Street, Erie, Pa 16503. Online Condolences may be sent to Davisgarrfuneralhome.com.

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