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William Davis Obituary
Billy Davis has left us for his next great adventure. With a gentle soul and kind heart, he courageously maintained his positive take on life while fighting a brain tumor that first deprived him of his musical ability, and then, his life. Because of his wit, charm, and love for those around him, Billy developed many deep and long lasting friendships while growing up in Castle Creek, NY and that continued during the years he lived in Binghamton, California, Chicago, and Nashville. His definition of family extended from those who shared his DNA, to those who shared his love of music and life. Billy loved music and often said it was his saving grace. Music brought him joy, a sense of belonging, and a way to connect with people. As a young man coming to age in the seventies, Billy's musical talents became clear to all who would listen. During this time he began writing songs, playing guitar and singing in high school, while also becoming a co-founding member of the Binghamton based rock band ACTS. He moved to the world stage as guitarist and singer for Foghat, The Outlaws, and for the last fifteen years with the legendary English band, Badfinger. His other interests included restoring old cars, collecting antiques, and guitars. Anyone visiting his home in Nashville was treated to a museum of days gone by, which included a very large collection of shiny old toasters sitting comfortably in an old armoire in his living room. Billy Davis was the pure definition of a Renaissance Man. Billy was predeceased in death by his parents William Davis and Marion Sturges Lutz and brother, Thomas Davis. He is survived by his brother Richard Davis and his wife Rosalind, former spouse Beverly, sister Marion Lutz, step-brother Richard Lutz, step-sister Donna Povero, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. The world just lost one of the most sincere people one could ever hope to meet. To say that Billy will be missed is an understatement, but he will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those he touched. In Billy's own words "See ya!" The family will receive friends on Sunday, March 15, 2015 from 3-5pm and on Monday, March 16 from 10-12 noon with a funeral service at 12 noon at the Wm. R. Chase & Son Funeral Home, 737 Chenango St, Port Dickinson NY. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. An additional memorial service for friends of Billy Davis will be held in Old Hickory, TN on Saturday March 21st in the Chapel facility at Hermitage Memorial Gardens. Hermitage Memorial Gardens is located at 535 Shute Lane, Old Hickory, TN. Visitation will be 3pm - 4pm, and the Memorial Service will begin immediately after Visitation at 4pm.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Davis
Rick Lutz
February 25, 2024
I loved Billy incredibly. Peaceful and always smiling. He touched all kindly, whether they knew him or not.no doubt he is up there looking down on us with a critical smile. Would love to give my opinion after speaking with him and listening to him. I love you Bill.... I am actually going to try to write and wish I could get your ideas....love you my brother.
Kelly Pranitis
March 7, 2023
We miss you everyday...can't wait to hug you again. Love ya brother. "See Ya" again someday!
March 7, 2020
Still loving and missing you Rockstar!!!
Chris Sturges
March 13, 2019
Miss you cous... your picture is right at my desk.
Imonday makes 2 years. Miss you like it was yesterday. I love you ❤Xoxo
Roxanne Eggleston
March 11, 2017
kee
March 7, 2017
u r missed
Mariah
August 4, 2016
Im so sad. So I came across Foghat's fb page. When I was 12 we built a house next door to this Sweet old man named Bill. I made friends with him and helped him with his dogs and would visit with him. His son, now and then would roll up in a bus (didn't occur to us it was a tour bus) spend a few days, play loud music, invite us over and give us albums. Foghat albums. He was Billy Davis. And I JUST found out through Google he passed away. Both him
Steve DuBrava
March 18, 2016
Just today I found out that you passed away. I remember Billy from the old Acts days at Popeye's BCC, the Wiffle Tree and too many to count. Loved that open collar loose tie look he pioneered back then. Matt, Mike, and Billy sho could play! Boy, what I would give to have that original Fear of Swimming record back. Thanks for the memories. RIP Billy Davis. You will be missed but not forgotten.
Tracy K
March 18, 2015
I have always loved watching and listening to you play. Your smile was contagious!!
I've also loved watching you with my Aunt. I know how much you two have loved each other... And for so long. I know you'll be watching over her now... You'll always be with her.
Dana Stockton
March 17, 2015
Billy was a friend from my childhood by location initially, moving next door on Brooks Rd. We were loud, unruly and out of control most of the time. Billy, as I've said for years was the only older kid on the road besides my uncle,(Jim Fox) who didn't dismiss us as little peasants. He talked with us, joked with us and treated us respectfully. As a kid, you remember nice people forever. Billy was unique, had a huge heart and is the only person I know that followed his passion to its peak. From watching him sing in the Whitney Point auditorium in a white leisure suit, to seeing him last year at Mcgirks, Billy never changed. Billy was always a staple in my past, and will always be a fond memory in my future. I was honored to have known Billy as a kid, as an older friend, and proud of the person he became. His family and friends are much luckier than I, having been with Billy and sharing in his amazing achievements. My condolences to you all. He was definitely one in a million.
Pat Seamans
March 17, 2015
I remember your smile and your silliness. You were such a gentle & caring soul. The old Whitney Point/Castle Creek days bring back such fond memories. Cannot put into words the sadness in my heart that you are not with us. But I know you are at peace. You will never be forgotten. Love to you Bill.
carol valentine
March 16, 2015
Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened.
Dr. Seuss
You will always be a reason behind both my tears and my smiles... Love You Always Billy
Jacqui Hess
March 16, 2015
Besides your beautiful voice and amazing wit I'll never forget the many memories I have with Acts and the way you always had time for everyone. I was so in awe of how you treated people and everyone knew they were your best friend. I will miss you Billy so much. Thanks for the memories and I will think of you in every song I hear. Until we meet again. Sing loud and proud my friend.
JEFFRY DELGADO
March 16, 2015
you touched a lot of hearts!
Sue Sturges
March 16, 2015
I am sitting in my classroom in GA but my heart is with everyone who is with Billy at this very moment. Though my heart is heavy and my eyes full to tears, I will hold you closely, give you a big hug and tell you I love you. Thanks to everyone who has been able to share their memory of Billy with everyone else. You will be missed Cuz! xo
Billy and I...still trying to locate the ones from the Bluebird.
Sue Sturges
March 16, 2015
My Mom, Billy and I just after his surgery. Amazing!
Sue Sturges
March 16, 2015
Jeff Bloom
March 16, 2015
The Rock & Roll band in heaven just got a little better. RIP Billy.
John Gregory
March 16, 2015
Certainly this loss is a hard one. For me, in seeing the way Billy touched so many souls, and how the love of his spirit lit up FB the last two years, I'm left inspired. "Cheers" Billy..."See Ya".
Donna Shelp Fletcher
March 16, 2015
Billy, Billy, Billy, what can I say that has not already been said? You had a life that most people only dream about. You fulfilled your desire to be a musician, and boy did you!!!! I truly believe there's not a soul out there who met you, that didn't walk away loving you, whether they knew it or not. The mark you left on "our" world could hardly be repeated. My words to you are thank you, thank you for choosing us to be apart of your journey!! While your physical presence will be heartbreakingly missed, your spiritual presence will be felt by all who love you. Peace to you my friend. Love ya!!
XOXOXO....always have, aways will....
March 16, 2015
May 2013
March 15, 2015
Sue Sturges
March 15, 2015
My entry could be a book, filled with memories of our childhood, singing silly songs like " Ohladiladi" on a road trip to Castle Creek, our many adventures, celebrating birthdays at Sharkey's with the family... and many more.
I will cherish all of the memories we have shared, especially in our later years on one of my visits to Nashville and "jammin" with friends in your kitchen, enjoying the comfortable feeling of your home filled with antiques and pictures of days long ago. Your performance at the historical venue The Bluebird Cafe will be one of the moments I will forever etched in my heart as I proudly listened to you pour your heart and soul out via the lyrics you had written for the Paris Landing CD, recently released.
You were a gentle and kind man and your life ended much sooner than it should have. The people you have touched around the world have been blessed by your love of music, family and many friendships. I will miss our visits in Nashville and will keep your memory in my heart and soul forever. I love you Cuz- Godspeed! xo
Sue Sturges
March 15, 2015
My entry could be a book filled with memories of our childhood, singing silly songs like " Ohladildi"on our many adventures, celebrating birthdays at Sharkey's with the family... and many more.
I will cherish all of the memories we have shared, especially in our later years on one of my visits to Nashville and "jammin" with friends in your kitchen. Your performance at the historical venue The Bluebird Cafe will be one of the moments I will forever etched in my heart as I proudly listened to you pour your heart and soul out via the lyrics you had written for the Paris Landing CD, recently released.
You were a gentle and kind man and your life ended much sooner than it should have. The people you have touched around the world have been blessed by your love of music, family and many friendships. I will miss our visits in Nashville and will keep your memory in my heart and soul forever. I love you Cuz- Godspeed! xo
LuAnn Costley-Shepard
March 15, 2015
Billy was a star, no matter what he was singing he made the song his own. Singing on the stage at WPHS or for a dance with Crystal Sin, he was pure magic. He treated eveyone as if they were the most important person in the world to him. My condolences to his family and his many friends and fans. The world has not only lost a great musician but a one of a kind man.
Ron Keibel
March 15, 2015
I was fortunate to reconnect with Billy, thanks to Rocky and others efforts to do just that. He spoke with me after being diagnosed as to not having a legacy. I assured him that he surely did in the way he treated people and their need to have him as part of their lives. Thank you all for making my words be so true.
Billy what a grand and diverse "family" you have, you'll be missed, not forgotten.
Michael (DeMo) DeMichiei
March 15, 2015
Billy, A warm heart and happy soul. You will be missed my friend. You always put a smile on my face and treated me like I was the only one who mattered. I will miss you, but look forward to seeing what you do next. Until we meet again, Thanks for all the Melodies!
Scott Anderson
March 15, 2015
Soul crushing
Spiritually dismantling....
It's taken another loved one, family, friend
Again...
Without mercy or blessing.
No more Divine appeals, no compliant notifications,
Left empty- clutching and crying,
Trying to revive you with memory resuscitation.
Heart of glass-Brittle shards and splinters lodged,
Words sound like hollow thunder,
In this flashing moment and delicate situation.
They say that Hope will put us back together again....?
Until then...
I am gonna miss you my friend.
[Scott M. Anderson]
Billy influenced many lives directly or indirectly;through his music and his personality. I only knew Billy through a friend of a friend,through his music career. He was a blessing in our Southern Tier music bloodline, a gift of this human tapestry.
Beverly LaMar-Davis
March 15, 2015
You were 9 years old when I married your brother, and I got the little brother I never had before. My favorite memory is of you & I singing "Red Rubber Ball" over & over while we did the dishes! It was then that I knew...This boy can sing!!! You followed your dreams and succeeded so remarkably, while remaining one of the most humble, kind, and loving men I have ever known. Thank you for the beautiful gift of your music and your love. Peace be yours, little bro. Love always & See Ya!
David Cook
March 14, 2015
Till we play together once more Billy, as you are now in unhindered full voice. See Ya my friend.
Scott Anderson
March 14, 2015
Soul crushing
Spiritually dismantling....
It's taken another loved one, family, friend
Again...
Without mercy or blessing.
No more Divine appeals, no compliant notifications
Left empty- clutching and crying,
Trying to revive you with memory resuscitation.
Heart of glass-
Brittle shards and splinters lodged,
Words sound like hollow thunder
In this flashing moment and delicate situation.
They say that Hope will put us back together again....?
Until then...
I am gonna miss you my friend.
Scott M. Anderson
Alicia Springett
March 14, 2015
Billy was one of a kind and has followers from all over....for all our us who knew him we know his spirit and music will live forever! Keep the music alive and remember all the goods times shared with him! We will all miss him. He is now at rest!
Amy Flint
March 14, 2015
I had the pleasure of working with Billy several years ago and through work we became friends. Those were some of my favorite days. His heart was as big as Texas. RIP Billy.
Scott Anderson
March 14, 2015
Soul crushing
Spiritually dismantling....
It's taken another loved one, family, friend
Again...
Without mercy or blessing.
No more Divine appeals, no compliant notifications
Left empty- clutching and crying,
Trying to revive you with memory resuscitation.
Heart of glass-
Brittle shards and splinters lodged,
Words sound like hollow thunder
In this flashing moment and delicate situation.
They say that Hope will put us back together again....?
Until then...
I am gonna miss you my friend.
Scott M. Anderson
Janelle Gennarelli
March 14, 2015
Marion And Family: So Sorry For Your Loss. R.I.P. Billy. Fly With The Angels.
Marta Link
March 14, 2015
Marion and all of Bill's family My thoughts and Prayers and Heart are with all of you. Billy touched a lot of Hearts and with that he left us Memories and his Music that will not fade. I will miss you my dear friend and I will always Love you, may you Rest in Peace
kb
March 14, 2015
Billy and I grew up together and started our first band in jr> high. We then formed Actx in the late 70's. We must have played a thousand gigs together and he shined at every one. He was an inspiration and one hell of a singer. He went on to greater musical heights. You will be missed my friend, may peace be with you.
Buck Teetor
March 14, 2015
My thoughts and prayers go out to Billy's family. He was a great musican and friend will never forget the fun back in the 70's and 80's RIP
Dave & Jennie Croffutt
March 14, 2015
Marion, Rick and the Davis family,
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Billy, he always had that twinkle in his eye and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. You all are in our thoughts and prayers during this time.
"See Ya" again one day, Billy..
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.
Lisa Johnson
March 13, 2015
Billy's death is such a tremendous loss to all who knew him. We can only try to find solice in the thought that he now has his voice back and can again sing and hear the music he loved so much. It's amazing how many people had their lives touched by Billy, how many people he made smile and feel good. I am honored to have known him, and to have enjoyed many talks over post-gig breakfasts with him "back in the day". If there really is a hell of a Rock and Roll Band in Heaven, they just gained a hell of a singer! My thoughts and prayers are with Billy's family, and with his family of friends.
Terri Petryszyn
March 13, 2015
Marion
I am so sorry for your loss
I know how much you loved your brother. God has yet another Angel
God speed for your broken heart
John Visconti
March 13, 2015
I knew Bill in the 80's; it was always a pleasure working with him and the Acts crew. Great memories and great music. God bless.
John Visconti/Popeyes
Cetacea Bryant
March 13, 2015
Billy was an amazing person! He was one of the most important people in my life! He was not only my uncle but my inspiration! He taught me that I was special in more than one ways! He was caring, and funny, and loving! I miss him more than anything in this world! He left way to soon! He lived a great and exciting life! Now he's playing on the big stage in heaven!
Erik Cartwright
March 13, 2015
I will always treasure the years we spent together in Foghat and later as good friends and neighbors here in Hermitage TN. I will also remember having to go to his house to audition him for that gig :-() Always a great pleasure to work with and listen to. I will miss him a lot, RIP my dear friend.
Darlene and Frank Bianco
March 13, 2015
Billy when you were young you were part of our family .So glad that you went on to make your dreams come true . You made so many friends along the way and we will all miss you .I bet by now you are doing a gig at the Pearly Gates . Love you Billy
Sherry Kloda
March 13, 2015
No words can express the loss or grief .You were definitely "ONE IN A MILLION" !!!! As Dolly Parton said in her song "I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU" !! ROCK ON MY LOVE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sharon Dibble
March 13, 2015
I knew you as a classmate, but didn't have the privilege of knowing you as well as some did and I can see I clearly missed out. It was so great getting to see you one last time at our class reunion in October and I was happy to see how great you looked. I am happy to have that last memory of you and you were so upbeat and insisted that you felt fine and didn't feel sick at all. It was hard to hear the news in about 4 short months how much had changed, but I will remember seeing you one last time on stage doing what you loved most and still looking great! You certainly lived life to the fullest and touched so many people's lives! RIP
Lisa
March 13, 2015
Thank you for the gift your living brought to us. Love you, miss you, Always....
March 13, 2015
Your music will live on. May you rest in peace.
Kelly Neferis
March 13, 2015
I was an avid follower of ACTS back in the day. Billy was a great musician. So thankful for the memories of listening to him over the years. He was a wonderful entertainer. Prayers to his family and friends today and in the days ahead.
angie whitaker
March 13, 2015
Billy, you are at peace now and know that your music will live on in our hearts forever.
Thomas Sedlock
March 13, 2015
Thank you for the music and inspiration Billy, Rest in Peace <3 My condolences to his family
Misty Harper
March 13, 2015
Our deepest condolences. <3 RIP Billy!
Chris Sturges
March 12, 2015
My pride in you and your multiple talents will never fade. I pray it is as "heavenly" as I recall, and that unimaginable peace has surrounded you.
Marti Kjelgaard Henriksen
March 12, 2015
Thank you to Billy's family for sharing the gift of " Billy Davis" with the world, prayers of Peace and condolences to each of you and also extending the prayers to all that were lucky enough to call Billy, FRIEND.....See you on the other side Bill....
March 12, 2015
NYP<3BB..sing on my love.
Denise Shelp Kemp
March 12, 2015
Thoughts & Prayers are with Billy's Family & Friends.
Gina Sims
March 12, 2015
You made me believe in myself.. I can't tell you how much I appreciate you and your time and love. I will see you again my sweet friend.
Darlene and Frank Bianco
March 12, 2015
Billy you were part of our family when you were younger . Did not know what great things were going to happen to you as you grew up . You had a dream and you really found it . Could not have happened to a nicer young man . You made many good friends along the way and we will all miss you . I bet you are already singing at the Pearly Gates . God Bless You . Love you Billy
J. Lynn Edwards
March 12, 2015
Im truly sorry I didnt get to see Bill 1 last time to bid him a fond adieu. We hadnt spoken or seen each other in about 30 yrs. I can say this though the last time was as it is when you see & old friend a wave a smile a hug & some kind words shared. Bill Davis a true gentleman of the universe. R.I.P. my friend
Jeff Slaven
March 12, 2015
Thank you for teaching me to follow my dreams Billy. My life is richer for having you in my life.
Ditta
March 12, 2015
"Sa"
Greg Bertholf
March 12, 2015
Billy you were always an inspiration to me. I'll always have fond memories of ACTS. You were always kind and a gentleman. I wish I could have had a chance to talk life and music just one more time my friend. You set the bar high for the rest of us. God Bless!! See you on the other side!
roxanne Eggleston
March 12, 2015
Words cannot express how saddened I am to have lost my life long friend. He was the most genuine compassionate man you'll ever meet. I am truly honored to have had a part in caring for him during his final days. My sincerest thanks to Jude and Pat for opening up their home to Billy and his friends during his final days. My deepest condolences to Jude,Pat,Mickey,Deb,Kim,Terry,Mike and Marion. We all have a huge hole where our hearts belong. Rest in peace my friend Till we meet again... I love you, "Rock"
Cindy Waterman-Handerhan
March 12, 2015
Thank you for being you. I'm sure that you will make heaven a very musical place. You will dearly missed
Terri Aten/Copp/Smacher
March 12, 2015
I will always remember when I first realized you had such a great talent.....LOL Whitney Point High School wasn't where you would think you would meet your first RockStar.....but it was.....So many memories so glad to know you are an angel watching out for all of us left on earth.
Heidi Weeks
March 12, 2015
Thank you Billy, for the love, laughter, and friendship. Xoxo
Chris Scott
March 12, 2015
Thank you for all of the Good Music, I had only met you once in the late 1970's , early 1980's, you were a very kind Man......You were a Shining Star of all of our Lives....Thank You !!!!!
steve woodall
March 12, 2015
Shine Bright buddy Miss you alot.. Much Love....
steve woodall
March 12, 2015
Billy Your were truly an inspiration to me. Ever since I started at Cherry Creek I knew you were a amazing person. It has been an honor buddy to have been associated with you, I miss my Pal I know you've gone to Rock it out in Heaven I believe without a doubt you are looking down on all of us and smiling. Love you my friend Rest in Peace..... Toast to you!!!!!!!!!!
Paul Raub
March 12, 2015
Thank you Billy for creating so many everlasting musical memories in life. They will live forever in our hearts. Rest peacefully. See you on the other side.
Your Pranitis Family
March 12, 2015
Billy our family will never be the same without you in it. You brought so much joy into our lives beyond words. You were an amazing man who will remain in our hearts forever. Miss you terribly and Love you even more. Rock on...Rest in Peace XOXO! As you would say "See Ya" Love you!
Monica Fitzgerald
March 12, 2015
Billy, you will truly be missed by all that knew you.
March 12, 2015
Cathy Smith Asay
March 12, 2015
Oh Billy Billy Billy...I have no words...love you, miss you...
Dave Rosenbloom
March 12, 2015
You left a mark in our Community that will never be erased. You will be remembered in all our Hearts
Vicki Seiler
March 12, 2015
Billy, we met only a couple of times while you were playing with Badfinger. I felt as if we had know each other forever. You were just a regular guy. You were a rock star but to me you were more like someone I could just talk to. You left with a place in my heart. I am saddened that we will not meet again until I meet you on the other side. Rest well for a while and then find all the greats up there and start a new band and rock on. My condolences to all of Billy's family, friends, and fans. God bless and RIP Dear Billy.
carol valentine
March 12, 2015
Billy you were an amazing person and your legend will live on into eternity. going to miss my dear friend, love you always.
terry walker
March 12, 2015
From 1973 when we shared performances at the Roberson Center thru his whole musical journey, Billy always lit up the room when he came in. I considered Billy a good friend and will miss him dearly. Rest well kind Troubador friend and brother. We have lost another treasure from our musical family.
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