Donald Rogers Davis

Donald Rogers Davis, 81, of Billings passed away at Valley Health Care on Thursday, Sept. 6. Donald was born in Billings on Dec. 8, 1930, the son of Hoyt and Ruth Davis. He was raised in the family home in Billings and graduated from Billings High School in 1948. Don served in The Marine Corps, 1951-1954, playing in the band stationed in San Francisco and Hawaii.

Don married Earlene Cooley on June 9, 1957. Don worked in the plumbing and heating business starting with Crane Co., then started his own business with partners. Don was an accomplished trumpet player known by many for his talent. He performed in the Billings Symphony, as well as Doc's Tailgate Dixieland Band. He also performed in various dance bands around Billings.

Don was interested in all things mechanical, always ensuring everything was in working order. He had a special friendship with his brother-in-law, John Cooley, sharing many good times together.

Don loved his family immensely dedicating himself to their well-being.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Earlene, and sister Ailene Shaffer.

He is survived by his sons Scott (Razel) and Skyler of Billings; sister-in-law Carol Rowe of Dallas, Texas; sister-in-law Mary Cooley of Musselshell; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held in Billings at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 13, at First Congregational United Church of Christ, with burial to follow at Mountview Cemetery. The casket will be open for visitation on Tuesday and Wednesday from 8a.m.–5 p.m. at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave., and prior to the funeral at the church on Thursday.

Memorials may be made to First Congregational United Church of Christ, 310 N. 27th St., Billings, MT, or the charity of one's choice. Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements and remembrances may be shared with the family at www.michelottisawyers.com.

Don Davis