Willie Davis

Willie Davis, a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, entered eternity on October 19, 2024, in Thatcher, Arizona, at the age of 79. Born on November 21, 1944, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Raymond & Ina Davis. Willie lived a life defined by service, love, and laughter.

A proud graduate of Spanish Fork High School in Utah, Class of 1963, Willie dedicated his career to serving others as a Sanitation Engineer Supervisor for the City of Safford. His role was more than just a job; it was an embodiment of his philosophy of life—always serving others, a mantra he carried into every aspect of his existence.

Willie's warmth and humor made him a joy to be around. He was a friendly and determined soul, often the jokester in any gathering, ensuring that laughter was a constant in the lives of those around him. His patience and enduring spirit helped him navigate life's challenges with grace and strength. He possessed an immense love for his family and friends, traits that will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know him.

In his spare time, Willie had numerous hobbies that filled his days with creativity and joy. He was passionate about wrestling, engraving, and gardening, and he loved diving into art projects. He spent countless hours engrossed in the pages of Louis L'Amour books, which provided him both comfort and adventure. He was particularly fond of attending the Gila Valley Temple, where he found peace and fulfillment.

He was often heard saying: "Seek for the riches of eternity", "Listen to the Prophet", "You can't take it with you", "Be true to your faith", "A man's gotta do what a man's gotta do", and "You never know until you try".

Among Willie's proudest accomplishments were his service in the Eastern Atlantic States mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and attending the Washington D.C. Temple. However, no accomplishment was more significant than marrying his one true love, Sharlene Hawkins, on June 30, 1967, in the Logan Utah Temple. Together, they built a warm and loving family, united in their faith and commitment to one another.

Willie is survived by his loving spouse, Sharlene Hawkins Davis; their children: Lance and Dawn Davis, Aaron Davis, Chad and Rina Davis, Dan Davis, Joy and Jason Peck, David and Sheree Davis, Stanley and Aubri Davis, Jacob and Rebecca Davis, and Keith and Rose Davis. He is also survived by his sibling's Sandra, Norman and Julie, Lynn Ray and Wendy, Kenneth, Scott and Julie, Terry and Beth, Kathleen and Uili, Christine and Charlie, and Jana and Cody. His legacy continues through his 20 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Ina Davis, and his brother, Wade Davis. Their memory will forever be intertwined with his, as he carries their love and lessons into eternity.

Funeral services will be held to honor Willie's life on November 2, 2024, at the Thatcher Stake Center, located at 4050 West 2nd Street, Thatcher, Arizona. A viewing will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. He will be laid to rest at Hubbard Cemetery in Pima, Arizona, at 1:00 PM the same day.

Willie Davis leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and love that will inspire all who knew him. His impact on the lives of others is immeasurable, and he will be deeply missed but never forgotten.