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John Davis Obituary

Dr. John S. Davis Born October 1, 1935. Returned to God September 22, 2009. John lived for music and had a long and varied career. After receiving the first doctorate in Musical Composition awarded at the University of Arizona he taught at: Wesleyan College in Chapel Hill, N.C. He was Director of the Tucson Boys Chorus from 1975-1980. Taught Music and Chorus at Santa Rita H.S. and Carson M.S. Taught Music and Musical Theatre at Utterback Fine Arts Magnet School. Former Choir Director at Saguaro Christian Church. Music Director at St. Rita in the Desert until one month before his death. Survived by wife, Leta, six children, ten grandchildren, two sisters, one niece and three nephews. Memorial Mass October 17, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Rita in the Desert in Vail. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Rita's building fund, the Dr. John S. Davis Memorial Fund at the Tucson Boys Chorus or the American Cancer Society.

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Published by Arizona Daily Star on Oct. 4, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for John Davis

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Amy Carr Burton

May 14, 2010

Dr. Davis, you will be missed! I will never forget you or the fun we had in choir at Santa Rita High School from 1980-1982. To the family of Dr. Davis - I'm so very sorry and I want you to know that I'm praying for all of you. Dr. Davis is in a much better place and we will see him again in heaven soon! In love and sympathy, Amy Carr Burton & family, the class of 1983 Santa Rita HS, Tucson, AZ :)

Sarah Boring (Duch)

December 22, 2009

Dr. Davis was my choir teacher at Carson middle school from 03-04. he was my favorite teacher with such a big heart and a very weird sence of humor. All i ever think about whenever i hear kids whinning and complaining was dr. d saying " heres a quarter call someone who cares.." I will always remember him and is careing ways. i will miss him so very much!

Sarah Boring

December 22, 2009

Dr. Davis was my choir teacher at Carson middle school from 03-04. he was my favorite teacher with such a big heart and a very weird sence of humor. i will miss him so very much!

Sean Brandt

October 29, 2009

I was in the Tucson AZ Boys Chorus when Dr. Davis was the director. We went on 3 tours of the U.S. together. I remember him as an excellent musician, kind, and caring. He was also my niece's music director at Carson Middle School. He will be missed by many people in Tucson.

Rocky Willson

October 21, 2009

I knew John through his writings in his quarterly zine, "Ghu Saplement", in the Spectator Amateur Press Society (SAPS). Through his writings in his zines, John shared his life and his thoughts with us.

John's creativity with his zines will always be remembered as will the kindness of his words and his sparkling spirit that his words conveyed.

After reading through the other memories of John, I now know that what we in SAPS learned through his writings was just a glimpse of a complex and varied man. I consider myself blessed to have been given that glimpse.

I will miss his writing and his creativity, but mostly I will miss his spirit.

Rebecca Sandahl

October 17, 2009

Dr. Davis was such an amazing teacher. He had a spark and love of life. He was my music/choir teacher in 7th grade in the year 02-03 at Carson. He was one of my favorite teachers. I remember that he wished the best for every single one of his students. I will always remember singing songs like "i saw mommy kissing santa claus" for the christmas concert at carson that year. Dr. D was truely an inspiration to a lot of people. He will surely be missed. I hope that one day I can make as big of an impact on people as he did.

Tiana Goossens

October 17, 2009

Dr Davis was an amazing teacher. He had that quality that made us all wanna talk to him. I had him in chior from 2001-2003 and he was absolutely understandable. I met so many of my friends in chior and he was the one thing we all had in common. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family. You will be missed tremendously. :////

Melodie Pohl

October 17, 2009

I've met Dr. Davis before, but I was too young to go to Carson. It was open house and I was with my sisters. We all will miss Dr. D, I know it.

Elizabeth Lockwood

October 17, 2009

Dr. Davis was a wonderful man. I was in his choir class my 8th grade year at carson. He was always there to help me with anything I needed, he even helped me to edit my stories. He will be sorely missed.

Lindsey Lewis(Creller)

October 16, 2009

Dr. D was not only my favorite teacher at Santa Rita up to '89 but such a sweet sole who also, after hunting him down for a few months and finding him at Carson, sang at my wedding in '91. He brought the best out of everyone he encountered. The alumni eagles were quite sad to learn of his passing since we were preparing to perform for him during our reunion weekend October 9th. I'm proud and thankful to have known him. I know he was smiling down when we sang the homecoming game's National Anthem in his honor.

Sonia A. Plummer-Sikes

October 14, 2009

I worked with John S. Davis, known foundly as "Dr.D" to all, at Carson Middle School. He was a very special teacher who truly loved sharing his "Musical" talents with his choir students. He also "Tickled the Ivory" for the staff a few times or two. He was so dedicated to being my official scorekeeper for my Girls Volleyball home games. He was a man who had a wonderful rapport with students and staff and one you could count on. To his family and loved ones, May the Lord Bless You and Keep You through this time of loss.

Al Addleman

October 14, 2009

Dr. Davis was a strong influence in my life while at Santa Rita from 79-83. He was not afraid to talk about his faith in God and in many subtle ways he contributed to my decision to become a musician and Pastor. I also teach voice and often think of the exercises we did in choir. Never forget the flying eraser...May Christ bring wonderful peace to your family in this time as only He can.

Tamatha Sauber (Hubble)

October 13, 2009

I was deeply saddened to hear of Dr. D's passing. He was one of the best teachers I ever had. I was in his choir class at Santa Rita from 1981-1985, and he kept it fun and challenging every day. His high expectations brought out the best in us. His ability to connect and bond with his students seemed effortless, though we must have driven him crazy at times. I am always telling my children stories about funny things that happened in choir with "Dr. D". As a teacher now myself, I can only hope to have as much of an impact on my students as he had on me. I am thankful I had the opportunity to learn from him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May God bless you and keep you in His care during this time of sorrow.

Don Calhoun

October 13, 2009

I worked with Dr. Davis at Carson Middle school. He will be truly missed by so many former students and staff members. I am sorry for your loss.

Shawn Blair Ryden

October 12, 2009

I worked with "Dr D" at Carson, and recently became his "friend" on Facebook. I will miss him and his love of life. I am very sorry for your loss.

Mark Manning

October 11, 2009

We who knew John through the pages of his works for the Spectator Amateur Press Society (SAPS) will sorely miss his clever experiments with the printed page, and his accounts of his family and his musical life.

Montora Thomas

October 11, 2009

I had Dr. Davis when I went to Carson from 92-95, to this day whenever I hear 'All I have to Do is Dream' I hear cheeze whiz instead of gee whiz. He made life fun and will never be forgotten.

I'm sorry to hear of his passing.

Carol Ballard

October 10, 2009

I knew John through the Spectator Amateur Press Society and enjoyed his contributions very much --- particularly the shows he wrote.

John asked to buy one of my watercolors but as it was somewhat of a copy and exercise, I didn't feel that I could sell it. However I did send him a computer print out of my painting, which he apparently enjoyed.

I'm sorry that he will no longer be with our group, we shall miss him.

Robert Lichtman

October 10, 2009

I never met John, but knew him as a valued fellow member of the Fantasy Amateur Press Association and the Spectator Amateur Press Society for many years. His unique voice and entertaining contributions to these groups will be missed. My sympathies to family and friends.

Wendy Gonzales

October 9, 2009

I knew John from singing in his high school and church choirs. He loved music, humor and kids, a combination that created a lifetime impression on all of us. He lived his life well - may all of us aspire to be remembered so fondly and vividly.

Diana West

October 7, 2009

Dear Leta and family, Thank you for sharing such an amazing soul with all of us. Dr. D was one of the most energetic, encouraging, and positive teachers I ever knew. He was an inspiration to everyone whose life he touched. I am sure he is now brightening the Host of Heaven with song (and goofy jokes!). You are in my prayers!

Danny Gregory

October 7, 2009

Dear Leta and Family; As you know, i so wanted to see John, but i was just too late. I so enjoyed spending the next afternoon talking, crying and laughing over old stories with you and Jeff. I still can not believe he is gone. Im thinking of you all.

Cindy Davis nee Noon

October 7, 2009

Leta--My thoughts and prayers are with you & your family. I was so sad to learn of John's passing. His life & love for you and his family and friends, his generous spirit, his wonderful talent and passion for music has touched and moved us all. His beautiful soul lives on in our hearts.

Mary Lou Low

October 7, 2009

Leta and family - It was with sadness that I heard of John's illness and passing. He was our choir director and we all learned so much from him. He will be missed. Take care. God Bless.
Mary Lou Low

Lee Hemphill

October 7, 2009

God Bless Dr. Davis! Both my sons had Dr. Davis in choir at Carson Middle School. Dr. Davis gave them such blessed opportunities in choir and were big influences in their lives. They both worked with him at the "Cougar Mart" as well. I recall fond memories of the choir concerts at Carson MS. Dr. Davis is one of a kind and he will be greatly missed.

October 6, 2009

Leta, I am so sorry to hear about John. You know that my prayers and condolences are with you. I was here 5 years ago. If you need anything please call.
Marty Hart, Tucson

October 6, 2009

Dear Leta & Family,
We were saddened to hear that John had passed away. He was a special person and will be missed.
We will ge gone on Oct. 17th, so will miss the service, but we send our Sympathy and Love to all of you....

Jan & Rod Maerker

Kristy Seal (Garner)

October 6, 2009

What a wonderful, compassionate teacher Dr. Davis was! I remember him so fondly from Santa Rita. Though I didn't sing in his choir, I was his piano accompanist one year. I know he helped to foster a love of music in me that still exists today! I will always remember his quirky ways and how easily he connected with all his students. My prayers are with his family as they mourn their loss. Dr. D. is leading a choir of angels in Heaven now!

Ashley Hendrix

October 6, 2009

I had Dr. Davis as my choir teacher at Carson Middle School from 92-95. I not only saw him at school, but at church on Sundays as well. It seemed like he never got tired of singing. I will always remember how he made the choir laugh during concerts by holding up signs like "Don't look, but your zipper is down!" so that only we would see. The parents would just wonder what we were giggling about. He will be missed by myself and my family.

Beth Townsend

October 6, 2009

Dr. Davis had a way of seeing something special in each of his students. I remember him most fondly from Santa Rita from all of my teachers because of his love music and of his students. I am forever a better person for having known such a sweet soul and will always continue to love and appreciate music arts because of Dr. John Davis, God rest you my sweet friend.

October 5, 2009

I was lucky enough to have Dr. D. at Carson Middle school, He was by far my favorite teacher though all of my schooling. Thank You Dr. D. for enhancing my love for music your teachings will continue on to my children. My thoughts are with your family at this time.
Sara Hiesrodt Renkert
only trouble is cheese whiz........ you will be missed!

Paul Ludwig

October 5, 2009

John Davis was the first and best friend I had at Amphitheater High School. John introduced me to barbershop quartet singing for which I shall be forever grateful. Thank you John.

Tracy & Charyah Robinson (De Palma)

October 5, 2009

My husband and I both had chorus with Dr. Davis as our teacher at Santa Rita H.S.from 1981-1985. What an honor to have him as a teacher. We will never for get our warm up and stretching exercises...A-E-I-O-U. We have alot of great memories of him. He will be truly missed. Our thoughts and prayers our with the family.

Derrick Tadeo

October 5, 2009

I was a student of Dr. Davis at Carson m.s 92 to 95, He was my favorite teacher. He made it fun at school. All the students loved him! Thanks for A lot of good memories Dr.Davis

Bill Steinebach

October 5, 2009

John and I went to Amphi from 1947 to our graduation in 1953. We also sang together in the Tucson Boys Choir. We were able to spend time together at various Amphi and TABC reunions and it was the same funny and caring personality I remembered from our youth. I'll miss you John and my condolences to your family and friends.

Michele (DePalma) Skyrm

October 5, 2009

Although Dr. Davis was not one of my teachers. I can tell you at Santa Rita every student LOVED him so. My sister and I were just talking about him the other day. Our world really needs more teachers like him. May you find peace knowing he touched and made a difference in alot of peoples lives. It's been 22 years since my graduation at Santa Rita H.S. Still we have fond memories of him at school.

Carol Newhouse

October 4, 2009

Our daughter spent four wonderful years singing under Dr. Davis at Santa Rita High School. He was a wonderful influence in her life. She recently enjoyed keeping up with his life through his entries on FaceBook. I wish there were more teachers like John Davis. May beautiful memories of his life and God's peace bring you comfort now and in the months to come.

Anna Jane Eppinga

October 4, 2009

With deepest sympathy to John's family. We were in the same class at Amphi

Shannon Morrison

October 4, 2009

I was a student of Dr. D's at Santa Rita from 82 to 86. He was the greatest teacher I ever had. He was compassionate and caring and always let us know that he was there for us no matter what, but he expected us to perform and perform it properly. I remember one of his biggest pet peeves was someone pronouncing you as choo. Drove him nuts, and it was something he passed on to his students and it drives me nuts too. Thank you Dr. D for sharing your love and passion and thank you to your family for sharing you with us. God truly has gained a worthy angel in his heavenly choir.

Shannon Smith-Morrison

October 4, 2009

I was a student of Dr. D's at Santa Rita from 82 to 86. He was the greatest teacher I ever had. He was compassionate and caring and always let us know that he was there for us no matter what, but he expected us to perform and perform it properly. I remember one of his biggest pet peeves was someone pronouncing you as choo. Drove him nuts, and it was something he passed on to his students and it drives me nuts too. Thank you Dr. D for sharing your love and passion and thank you to your family for sharing you with us. God truly has gained a worthy angel in his heavenly choir.

Elouise Bell

October 4, 2009

John and I were in Amphitheater Junior and Senior High School together, members of the Class of 1953. In the picture heading this guest book, John's eyes tell you most of the things I remember about him: the humor and wit, the liveliness, the intelligence. He was always a special classmate to me; and at our 47th or 48th class reunion, though I hadn't seen him since graduation, I felt the same warm and sense of fun that I had enjoyed all those years ago. May he rest in peace. My condolences to his family, of whom he was so proud.

Linda (Valley) Leighton

October 4, 2009

I worked with John at Santa Rita High School. Many of my English students were also in his choir and really enjoyed working with him. I am so sorry for your loss. I will be out of town and am unable to attend his memorial service, but my thoughts and prayers will be with you.

V. Carole Smith

October 4, 2009

I sang in John's choir at the University of Arizona, and later worked with him at Santa Rita High School. He was a good and dedicated musician. I am so sorry for your loss.

V. Carole Smith

Rita & Rick Murrieta

October 4, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May your memories bring you comfort.

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