Joseph Gomer Davis Jr. passed away on Jan. 8, 2024 at Hospice Haven in Rockingham.
Joe was born in Spindale on Sept. 28, 1931, the son of Joseph Gomer Davis and Sara Ellerbe Davis.
He graduated from Rutherfordton-Spindale Central High School in 1948. Joe then attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for his undergraduate education and law school. After graduation in 1955, Joe attended Officer Candidate School and was commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy. He served his country for several years and attained the rank of lieutenant before being honorably discharged.
Following his stint in the Navy, Joe opened his law practice in Rockingham, where he provided excellent legal services for more than 50 years. It was in Rockingham where Joe met the love of his life, Betty Bowles Davis, to whom he was married for 61 years.
Joe was passionate about his church and his community. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Rockingham, and served as a deacon, a Sunday school teacher, a choir member and in many other capacities. He was a member of the Rockingham Rotary Club, and was named a “Paul Harris Fellow,” and Rotarian of the year in 2012-2013.
Joe was an avid outdoorsman, and loved spending time working his beagles and bird dogs. He especially enjoyed his time as a member of the Sandhills Rod and Gun Club. Joe also had a love of music, and was blessed with a soaring tenor voice. Over the years he shared his talents in countless church services, musical productions, weddings and funerals.
Of all his accomplishments, Joe’s greatest source of pride was his family. He was a faithful husband to his wife, and a loving father to his children. His favorite role, however, was as “Granddaddy.” Joe absolutely adored his grandsons, and relished spending time with each one of them.
In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his siblings, the Rev. Dr. Richard T. Davis, Beth Davis Carpenter and Sara Davis Helms.
He is survived by his wife, Betty Bowles Davis; children, Joseph Gomer Davis III (wife Michelle) of Rockingham and Jennifer Davis Richardson of Charlotte; grandchildren, Drew Davis, Jed Davis, Ben Richardson and Alex Richardson; and many other nieces, nephews and cousins.
Contributions would be encouraged to the First Baptist Church of Rockingham, Richmond County Hospice or the charity of your choice.
Visitation will be at First Baptist Church of Rockingham from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 13, 2023 with service at 2 p.m.
Online condolences may be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is serving the Davis family.
