David Roger Davis

David Roger Davis, 92, of Sandy Hook, KY, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2023 at Community Hospice Center in Ashland, KY, surrounded by family. He was born February 9, 1931 in Sandy Hook, the son of the late Curtis L. Davis and Delma Redwine Davis. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a great-grandson, Lincoln Ray Ellenburg.

Mr. Davis grew up in Sandy Hook, often being called by his nickname, “Doc”. He frequently spent time with his grandparents, David and Mary Etta Davis on Wells Creek. Graduating from high school at age 16, he then enrolled at Berea College, where he was a member of the varsity basketball team. After a transfer to Morehead State University, and a brief stint as a teacher in country schools, he enlisted in the Air Force, where he spent four years as a communications specialist (no one was more proficient at Morse Code) after training in Biloxi, Mississippi. He was then stationed in Erding, Germany, and then in the Middle East, primarily in Beirut, Lebanon. While there, he flew nearly daily missions in C-119 cargo planes, and in his favorite, the C-47 “Gooney Bird”, all around the world. He was also selected to serve a dual role with the United Nations, flying covert missions during the Korean conflict, for which he received special commendation.

He returned to the States and his “darling girl”, Wilma Adkins, and they married March 9, 1954. Together, they moved to South Carolina and finished his military career at Charleston Air Force Base. Following this, he and Wilma completed their college degrees at Morehead State University in 1956. He accepted a teaching position upon graduation, first in Carter County and then in Sandy Hook. After some time, he began work with the United States Postal Service as a rural letter carrier, a position he would hold for the next 26 years, ending with his first retirement. He concurrently held multiple positions with Davis Contracting Company, which was started by his father. With his USPS career ending, he returned to his passion, art, and sharing his considerable talents and joy in artistic expression with hundreds of fortunate pupils along while subtly instructing them in decency and fairness, principles by which he lived. He was proud of and loved his students, and tried hard to help them realize their own worth and potential. He retired from teaching in 1998. In retirement, he and Wilma enjoyed life together, sharing time with family and friends, playing and watching basketball, and taking great pride in maintaining their home. He was a Kentucky Colonel, a member of the Retired Teacher’s Association, and lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars.

He leaves behind his wife, Wilma; his brother O.C. (Alma); his children Joe Davis (Betty) and Dr. Dianne Brann (Christopher); grandchildren Joel David Davis II (Kristen) and Jordan Davis, Elke Brann and Alaric Brann; great-grandchildren Harlynn Welch and Greyson Welch, as well as beloved sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Anyone lucky enough to know Roger realized that he was an exceptional person. Brilliant and very well-read, he could speak with authority on almost any subject with anyone. He easily made friends wherever he went, and could be brought to his knees with laughter at a good joke. He was an adoring spouse and an excellent father and grandfather. He lived a very full life of duty and service to others; he wished for the best for everyone. His word was his bond. We have lost an irreplaceable character, a formidable mind who was unafraid to be himself, and unconcerned with the opinions of others when entertaining children with silly faces and outlandish antics. He will be sadly mourned by all who knew him.

Family will receive visitors at Lewis and Ferguson Funeral Home in Sandy Hook from 11 am to 1 pm on Friday, February 24, 2023 with a service at 1pm,  followed by military graveside service.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Community Hospice and their wonderful staff, special caregiver Beth, and Chaplain Smedley.

Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice.

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