Steve Davis

Steve Davis

Steve Davis Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 18, 2013.
NORMAN, Okla. (AP) - As a child, Steve Davis dreamed of playing for Oklahoma and even tucked away a picture of the Sooners' quarterback he idolized in his dresser drawer.

Decades later, he is among the standard-bearers for the position at one of college football's most storied programs. Davis, who started every game during Barry Switzer's first three seasons as head coach and won national championships in 1974 and 1975, died Sunday in a plane crash in South Bend, Ind. He was 60.

Davis compiled a remarkable 32-1-1 record as the Sooners' starter from 1973 to 1975. The Sooners went 11-0 in 1974, then won the national title again the following year after going 11-1.

It was a storybook career for Davis, who finished with one of the best records for a starting quarterback in the sport's history after a humble beginning at Oklahoma. He grew up in Sallisaw in the eastern part of the state and developed a love for the Sooners. In an interview with Th e Oklahoman newspaper last year, he described how he hid a picture from an Oklahoma football brochure in his top dresser drawer.

"It was a shot into the huddle, and there was Bobby Warmack, who was my idol. He had that eye-black, and the double chin strap and the towel out of the front of his pants," Davis told the paper. "I took that picture, and I took a big, black magic marker and wrote "WHEN?"

The day Davis made his first start in the 1973 season opener, he said, his mother took the picture and wrote on it: "TONIGHT."

Oklahoma beat Baylor in the opener, then tied powerhouse Southern Cal - with Lynn Swann and Pat Haden - in the second game.

After that, Davis and the Sooners ran off 28 straight victories.

"I will never get away from the fact that I was an Oklahoma quarterback. I will never get away from the fact that I only lost one game," Davis said in the 2008 book "The Die-Hard Fan's Guide to Sooner Football." ''All of those things are a par t of my legacy and my history. I am very thankful for what happened. I don't know that I would trade my career for any other quarterback that has ever played at OU."

A product of a different era, Davis hardly had to throw a pass to be the star quarterback in Oklahoma's dominant wishbone offense. He completed just 40 percent of his passes during his career for 2,034 yards, but only attempted about six passes per game during Oklahoma's back-to-back championship seasons.

With silver-shoed All-American Joe Washington carrying the ball, the Sooners rushed 813 times in 1974 - averaging an NCAA record 73.9 attempts per game - and amassing 438.8 yards on the ground. Davis' school records for consecutive starts (34) and career victories (32) were surpassed only last season by Landry Jones, who started every game the past three seasons plus most of 2009 while replacing injured Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford.

In the process, Davis reached out to Jones, who had been criticized after an early season loss to Kansas State by writing him a letter; Davis had been booed during the only loss of his career, a 23-3 setback to Kansas in 1975. Jones would go on to break Davis' career record for wins by beating Texas, also joining Davis, Jimmy Harris and Jamelle Holieway as the only Sooners' quarterbacks to go 3-0 in Red River Rivalry starts.

"He just really wanted to encourage me," Jones said. "Just keep going, keep leading those guys and keep fighting, regardless of what happens in the next game or the last game. Your focus is on this game and always to lead those guys."

Davis said his parents were from Sallisaw, though he was born at Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City, La., where his father was stationed. He received the very last available scholarship to play at Oklahoma - only after another player had decided to play at Colorado instead, according to the 2012 book "I Love Oklahoma/I Hate Texas."

"They had a lot of scho larships and they recruited eight quarterbacks to try to find somebody that could imitate Jack Mildren, and I was one of those eight," Davis recalled in the "Fan's Guide" interview. "I was the bottom of the eight but I was one of those eight, and through early fall drills I started out as number eight quarterback."

Davis described how he considered leaving Oklahoma before the 1973 season, but instead dedicated himself to competing and ended up landing the starter's job after Kerry Jackson was suspended and the Sooners were put on probation.

It would end up being among the greatest tenures for a starting quarterback in Oklahoma history, along with Harris' performance during the NCAA record run of 47 consecutive victories.

"That's what you live for," Davis said in the "Fan's Guide" interview. "I never felt nervous or anxious. I mean, I just couldn't wait to get out there and go play, go match up, go see who's better. I never got tight. I was an excitable playe r, but I think I played within myself, and just knowing I was going to go compete in front of 70,000 or 80,000 people and go find out who's best - it was great."

JEFF LATZKE, AP College Football Writer


Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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223 Entries

May 15, 2020

God is a God of all Comfort and he will Comfort the family's..My heartfelt condolences to the family's...

March 17, 2017

Sherri Richardson

August 7, 2014

Still think of you Steve....and George too. It brings comfort to know I will see you guys again.

Fran

May 21, 2014

Still missing you.....

Glenn FIeld

October 25, 2013

I never got to meet Mr. Davis but I'm a big fan of the TX/OU game. When I heard that he had passed I looked him up and found the inspirational speech he gave in Lubbock with the great Billy Graham. I loved that speech and watched it at least 30 times. I posted it on my Facebook page because I wanted others to hear this great message. It has been a while and I needed Christ like motivation today. I remembered Steve Davis and one of the best 7 minutes I have ever listened too. I no longer can view and wish I knew why. His words are simple but a message we need to hear every day. I hope someone will make this available again soon. I only knew Mr. Davis as being an awesome QB for OU until his unfortunate passing. After watching that video from 1975 on March 18, 2013 I will never forget him because of his love for Christ and his family! If anyone knows how I can watch that wonderful speech again please contact me.

Linda

August 5, 2013

This must be so hard on the family but remember you have a refuge in God. We're reminded in Ps. 46:1 that God is a refuge and Strength during difficult times.

May 17, 2013

May the god of comfort be a source of strength for your family at this difficult time. 2Corn 1:3, 4. Deepest Sympathy, Sue, Concord, NC

April 13, 2013

Steve, we will all miss you in the Wyrick family and Jesse and Paul. We feel such a great loss. Thank you for making Fran happy. I wish you could have stayed, but as
my grandmother said, "That's God's business."

carol mccrum

April 2, 2013

i dated steve a little while in college he got me through theory of football class as i was the only girl and we spent time talking about the word of God and i sang with l. d baker daughter danita.he will be missed,but we will see him again,and

March 31, 2013

so sorry for your loss,God has promised that he will open His hand and give you the desire of your heart if you ask him.May He be with you at this time..~~~

Mark & Laura Prochaska

March 27, 2013

Dear Joe & Barb, Lindsay, Jessica, and Haily,
We are so sorry for your loss. We pray for the comfort of the Holy Spirit to release the pain, leaving you with joyous, sweet memories of Steve. May you realize the peace that surpasses understanding in the forthcoming days and months. Because you know Christ and are His, you will not grieve as those who have no hope; rather, your grief will be an expression of your love for Steve and the precious family he leaves, and will exemplify the love and grace of our Heavenly Father. May you feel the embrace of His loving arms.
We love you,
Mark & Laura, Alison and Chloé Prochaska

March 25, 2013

What a loss for his family and for all of the sooner nation. I met Steve Davis in 1977 when he came to Hugoton Kansas to speak to our jr. high and high school football kids at the Hugoton christian church. He made a great positive impact on a number of kids. My only regret is not writing him earlier to let him know what he did for a lot of kids. He was a great role model for a lot of people both on and off the field. We will all miss him. God's blessing to all his family members. Steve Nelson Hugoton Kansas

Ron Howe

March 25, 2013

I was friends with Steve during his OU days, but in a different manner than most. Steve would come to Easton Heights Baptist Church with his Grandparents back in the middle 70's and that is how we became friends. I was a music student at ORU, played sports at Tulsa Edison (I'm a Tulsa native) and was on the Judo team at ORU. When Steve would come for a visit at Easton Heights we would go get a burger and coke at the burger joint down on Edison Street. We were not close friends, but good buddies when he came around. I knew he was from Sallisaw. Interestingly, I have lived in Poteau for the last nine years where I have served as Minister of Music and Adults at FBC Poteau. I have visited FBC Sallisaw a few times (Bill Aydelotte is a good friend from there) and also have a good friend, Greg Burnsed, who serves at Immanuel Baptist in Sallisaw. May I please send to your family my deepest condolences in this time and may the Peace and Love of God envelop you and give you comfort.

2012 Tulsa Drillers Baseball Game

R. Henry Migliore

March 25, 2013

We are all sad and suffering for the loss of our dear friend. Here we are last August at a Tulsa Driller's baseball game. Steve is on the back right and Fran Evans is front on right. They had a wonderful relationship. For years we have enjoyed a personal friendship and working on projects together. Throughout the years he hired many of my students; that was a complement to everyone. He knew just how to get the best out of them, frequently commenting that if I sent them, they would perform. We met often in Jenks for breakfast. We had plans to attend the OU spring game together; to enjoy our time and to talk over the latest big project that is so-so near completion. His e-mail to me in part last week: "How are you? I hope you are well and that your silence is due to being busy rather than dealing with any health issues.” (Steve was aware of some difficulty that I have been going through...and like a friend, wanted to know how I was doing). “We need to get together when time permits. I miss discussions about all things important". He goes on with a lengthy discussion about current progress. How sad I am we did not have that meeting. No question, a great quarter back and two national championships...that's impressive, but pales to the kind of person he was. One of our favorite sidelines...I would remind him yes, he was big time - he played against Texas at OU...but would ask if he had played the Oklahoma State Penitentiary inmates. With a wry smile I would make some kind of comment that I had played against the inmates while at Eastern Oklahoma State College in both football and basketball. He would laugh as he often did and agree. Steve ol' pal, I know where you are and rejoice in the day I can join you and all those close to me.
Your pal, Henry

Obie Moore

March 25, 2013

What a loss we all feel. My heartfelt prayers not only go out to Steve's parents, brothers, his son Bo, Fran, Steve's many friends and former teammates, but also to those countless persons that were touched by the life of Steve Davis in so many meaningful ways. As his younger OU teammate and fellow FCAer, I certainly admired and looked up to Steve (and remember desiring more time with him, like many). Yes, Steve was an attractive, good-hearted, gracious, Baptist kid from Sallisaw, but he was also “danged” tough and wasn't afraid to compete (to “put it all on the line”). In my eyes, he demonstrated more Courage than anyone on those 2 National Championship teams. He played beyond his abilities, and was a leader who was fueled by integrity and a spiritual clarity of purpose that was beyond his years. Losing was not something he seemed to contemplate. He was simply a Winner, but not just on the field. When many of us during the school week were visiting girl friends, studying or hanging out in the OU dorm, Steve was flying that airplane (at times I was invited to accompany him) to share his larger-than-life Christian faith, which was at the heart of everything he was--or wasn't. None of us are perfect, but Steve Davis should easily be remembered as the finest ambassador for Oklahoma Sooner Football (and Oklahoma life) that there will likely ever be. Truly, he is one of a kind.

We will miss you Steve! Thank you, my Christian brother for the champion you are and the faithful life you lived. Amen.

Paige Muse

March 25, 2013

Dear Davis family, I was so shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Oklahoma's favorite son. Wow, Steve's parents must have been such Godly parents,I have prayed for years that my two sons would follow in Steve's footsteps not only as football players, but more importantly as godly young men. I feel as if I have lost my older Christian mentor. I was 15 when Steve came to First Baptist Church in Heavener, Ok. to lead a youth revival. I sat next to his wife Judy, and he autographed the church bulltin in 1977. Just this year by accident the bulletin was distroyed by water damage and I cried, but then I remembered that he has also signed my leather purse at a State Wide Evangelism conference. Steve was apprehensive to sign my leather purse. He said "Are you sure you want me to sign on your nice leather purse" and I told him I have no doubt in my mind. Only God knew how much that autography meant to me a week ago when I found out that he has gone to be with our Lord and Savior. The moment I found out, I had to call my dad, back in Oklahoma. I miss you and your excellent example of Christ to this world. Can hardly wait to see you again in glory. Your were a true Champion for OU and more importantly a Champion for Christ.

Michael Benge

March 25, 2013

Prayers for the Davis Family. I want to share a quick story. When I was maybe 8 or 9, (I was the size of a 5 year old)... I remember being at a SHS bonfire rally. Steve carried me on his shoulders for a long time that night. He was my childhood hero. Even as a High School Senior, he showed a maturity and class beyond his years. He always showed me kindness and I will remember this great man for as long as I live. God Bless Steve and your Family.
Michael Benge
Class of 79

Paige Muse-Harding

March 25, 2013

Steve Davis brought a lot of happiness to a young female sooner fan in Heavener,Ok. I was the only thirteen year old girl in my school that listened to all the 73',74'& 75 sooner football games on the radio. I have Steve's autography in a leather purse and it is a true treasure. I cried like I lost a beloved family member. Steve was apart of my OU history and my OU family member. He was also a great Christian example that I pray my sons will emulate. God Bless you Steve

Rhonda Pewitt Burgess

March 25, 2013

Sorry for such a sudden loss to your family. Joe was in my class at Sallisaw before your family relocated. May you find comfort in the days, months and years to come knowing that your family has touched so many. God bless you during such a trying time.

Becky (Presler) Troyer

March 25, 2013

Joe,
My prayers and sincere sympathy are with you and your family. It's so hard to lose someone so close to you. Keep your faith in God and keep telling Him what's in your heart and mind, no matter how you feel. Give yourself time to heal, too. It took me 3+ yrs. to get past losing my friend and sister, Lorrilynn. She died suddenly in a car accident in 1997. May Jesus Christ keep you in His heart and in His hands. He will get you through this. God bless you,

Donna Byas

March 24, 2013

Much sympathy to the Davis family. Thank you so much for sharing Steve with the OU family. My favorite memories of Steve include his opening the door for me at OU's Baptist Student Union, stopping by my friend's car on which we had just changed a flat tire to see if he could do anything for us on his way across campus, and his taking the stage at the Oklahoma Southern Baptist youth evangelism conference, the winter before his Senior season at OU. Steve promised the crowd that OU would be in the National Championship game at the end of the next season. Like Joe Willie Namath who promised a win at the Super Bowl, James Steven came through with his promise. He helped get us to the championship game and brought home MVP and National Championship & Orange Bowl trophies to boot. That was such a thrill. It was such a great thing to watch Steve play on the field, but also to see him as a Christian gentleman. Steve is one of the Sooner greats and he will be missed so much. We didn't lose Steve, we know just where he is, now. Heaven's gates surely opened wide for him where he's been welcomed by his beloved brother, George. Many condolences. Thanks for sharing your loved one with the rest of the state and the Sooner Nation.

Teri Green

March 24, 2013

I worked with Steve in the mid90s. He was actually my knight in shining armor for a brief period of time. I will never forget him. My condolences to his family. RIP Steve.

Donna Doell

March 24, 2013

Joe and Barb, Brant and I are deeply saddened by your loss. Our prayers are with you and the famiy.

The Doells

Kevin Livesay

March 24, 2013

Steve was my senior adviser at American Legion Boys' State on the campus of NESU in the Summer of 1975. How fortunate to grow up an avid Sooner football fan, have followed the team faithfully, and then be "saddled" by having this gregarious, fun-loving, Sooner QB give you life advice. Steve's attitude was infectious and rife with success. He understood the blessings God had bestowed on him, and he thrived with them and the hard work. He was the epitome of Oklahoma to me. Today, he rests with our Savior, but, friends, oh what a legacy he leaves. Steve, I am sorry for those you leave but honored you were one of us.

Chuck Thayer

March 23, 2013

We should all be so lucky to have lived a life like Steve Davis. Not just because he was a great athlete, but because he was a great soldier for Christ. Thanks for being my role model all those years!

Ann Black Crownover

March 23, 2013

As I'm remembering Steve, I'm taken back to the good ole days at Sallisaw High. What a great friend he was. I remember the laughter and the many heart to heart talks about life, but what I remember most is his spiritual influence. Although I was the upper classman, I "looked up" to him. He was always there to offer his guidance when I needed it most. Even though I went to that "rival" school north of OKC, I was still very proud to call him my friend. He never missed a chance to extend an invitation to come watch him "perform." In my Sr. yearbook, he chose to sign on the Fellowship of Christian Athletes page. He left me with the verse, Phil. 4:13. That's the kind of guy he was, always relying on the strength of Christ to lead him in all things. What a glorious welcome he must have received when he met Jesus face to face. As I dearly remember his brother George, I will also remember Steve....always!!! May God's comfort, peace, and blessings be with the Davis family.

Aaron Presler

March 23, 2013

My family moved to Sallisaw in the middle of my junior year, so I didn't play football with Steve during his senior year, but we were teammates in track, and I considered George a good friend as we graduated together. Even in the short time I had a chance to associate with Steve personally, I was so impressed with his care for others and his dedication to his God. Yes, he was an All-State sports guy, but he would also often lead prayer sessions in the back of the bus on the way to track meets. Steve was not only an athletic leader, but a spiritual leader as well. While I was in college in St. Louis, my track coach came to me to ask about this amazing quarterback at OU. He was so impressed with Steve's ability to run the wishbone offense that my coach wanted to change our football team's offense to the wish bone as well..and he did the next year! I was proud to tell him I knew Steve and told him that Steve was not just a great quarterback but was a really good and Godly man. He will certainly be missed by his family and also a very broad community of people that Steve left a mark on in Sallisaw and across the globe. What will surely be our loss will be Heaven's gain.

Becky (Presler) Troyer

March 23, 2013

Dear Davis Family,
My deepest sympathy to you in the loss of Steve. He was a great guy and a faithful Christian. My prayers and thoughts are with you. Although it's been many years, I still have fond memories of my friendship with Joe at Sallisaw Junior High and High School. Joe and I shared our Christian faith, love for learning and genuine friendship. My brothers, Aaron Presler and Mark Presler, played football with and were friends with George at SHS. The whole Presler family and I have the utmost respect for your family - your Christian faith and love of God, family and friends. I know that Steve is with Jesus and that you will see him again. I pray that God will bless and sustain you with the strength and comfort that only He can provide. In His love,

Bob Thomas

March 23, 2013

A winner - in football and in life!
In football, Steve studied the playbook, practiced hard and was ready when his number was called. More importantly, in life, he knew the Book, prepared well and was ready when called. Steve Davis - a true winner!

Myrna Ford-Wilmer

March 23, 2013

Dear Davis family: I am sooo sorry for your loss, for the loss of such a powerful man of God who obviously touched many lives. Earths loss is Heavens gain~ Praying for peace and comfort for the family.

Brent Field

March 22, 2013

Condolences to the Davis families. I worked with Steve's brother Joe in 2000. Great Christian people. Joe always spoke so highly of his brother when we were together. God Speed.

March 22, 2013

Todd and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. God Bless you!
Cecil Hancock
Sallisaw, Oklahoma

March 22, 2013

Steve was one of a few men God has used in a powerful way. He has truly been God's soldier in a time when this old world desperately needed one. God was number one in his life as it should be for all of us. The NAS Bible says in I John 2:17 "The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever." Can't wait to see Steve in Heaven. He is my hero, and I hope he is for everyone.

Steve Owens

March 22, 2013

Steve was always special to the entire Owens family. Steve used to tell me how much he loved watching the Sooners play when he was in High School. His idol was Bobby Warmack, OU QB (1966-68) and he wanted to follow in Bobby's footsteps. Through hard work and determination he became one of the greatest Sooners of all time. He was always friendly and compassionate to people he met and willing to help in any way he could. We have lost a great Sooner but also a great person. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. We loved you Steve.

Lisa Barber

March 22, 2013

You are the reason I am a Sooner Fan. You were such positive Role Model both on and off the field. My parents took me to hear you Preach when I was young. I will never forget the impact you had on my life. You are a true Oklahoma Legend. May God comfort your Family and friends as you are with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. You will forever be in our hearts.

Randall Cook

March 22, 2013

Fran my sincere sympathy to you and your family. I remember you fondly when we worked together at the Williams Company (Vyvx). My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Anna hendon

March 22, 2013

I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family.

March 22, 2013

I met Steve back in 1975-77. He got to be my knight in shining armor and I was his damsel in distress. He
had a kind spirit and an infectuous smile. The last day I saw him there was a white light around him and I just stared and smiled. I will definately be looking for this guy in heaven...oh yeah, he sure could play ball...
Becky Ely San Antonio, TX

Bill Courtney

March 21, 2013

I met Steve 8 months ago. Since that time we spoke very often about a myriad of things from faith to football to business to passion to flying to family to public speaking and to new friendships. On may 5th, I thought I was doing Steve a favor by joining him in Tulsa to speak at his FCA event. What I learned, though, is that over the past 8 months, Steve had actually been doing me a favor by bringing me into his world. I am heartbroken for his family and the multitudes of people who lost a long time friend and hero. I am sadened by the loss of my budding friendship that has been cut short. I am proud that I can join the so many others that get to say that I knew Steve and, that in what has turned out to be the last of his days on earth, Steve graced me with a very small but very rewarding glimpse of his legacy, passion, and heart. God Bless you and your family, Steve, rest in peace, I'll see you again one day.

Claudia Price-Decker

March 21, 2013

I never knew Steve Davis personally, but I grew up in Norman watching him play football at OU. He was one of the best quarterbacks that ever graced the field! What an honor to have been given the opportunity to see him play! My heart goes out to his family and his friends. May God's peace remain with you through these difficult days. See you Steve...see you in Heaven someday.

Julie Dunbar-Kellenberger

March 21, 2013

My deepest condolences to the Davis family. My heart truly breaks for you all, and I will continue to lift you up to our Father for strength and comfort.

Bankston

March 21, 2013

So sorry for your loss.May the God of all comfort be with you in the days ahead.

Jack Christian

March 21, 2013

Steve Davis, your personal touch with common people and OU football accomplishments Are a sense of great alumni appreciation! Now you are with JESUS-THE GREAT I AM!!!--Jack Christian another OU Alum & Tulsa man.

KEN

March 21, 2013

R.I.P STEVE YOU WILL BE MISSED FROM THE SOONER FAMILY

March 20, 2013

Jesus said," if I be lifted up I will draw all men unto me" -Steve in his lifetime pointed people to Jesus and used his fame for God's glory. I hadn't seen Steve for 32 tears, but I'm motivated and reminded with his passing to use every chance God gives to lift Jesus up!
Kim Russell Clift

Dale Acker

March 20, 2013

May you rest in peace my friend. I will always remember our time in Sunday School at Sallisaw First Baptist Church with you as our teacher. I was also there the day the church ordained you as a preacher. I will never forget the trip we all made to Norman for my first OU football game and the days for the occasional lunch will be sorely missed. You were a great friend Steve as well as a great inspiration. You and I made many great memories that I will never forget. Give George a hug for me and God Bless. Also - BOOMER....!!

LaFonda Farmer-Haws

March 20, 2013

Steve, I was truly blessed to have you in my younger life at Sallisaw. Growing up with you and George around our Farmer's Furniture Store was such good memories. You were such a good role model for our youth group at FBC Sallisaw. You were such a good Christian. We all looked up to you. One of my favorite memories was playing catch (football) with you out in front of our Falls Creek cabin. You were staying in Norman for the summer but took the time to come see all of us kids at Falls Creek. I can remember it like it was yesterday. When I would catch the football it would really burn my hands cause of the major spin you put on the ball. I wasn't about to say anything cause I was just thrilled to be playing catch with you and know that you were the awesome OU quarterback that I could say I knew from our hometown. A wonderful hometown that is hurting so much right now. You are home now. A wonderful home in Heaven.....I bet there's a beautiful football field up there in Heaven my friend.

Susan Boudreaux

March 20, 2013

Steve,you were an incredible man, quarterback and witness for Christ. I remember you best from the early 80's when you and I worked together on behalf of Kerr-McGee. I haven't been able to stop thinking about you since hearing the tragic news. Rest assured, your life touched thousands. I know you are running the wishbone with the angels now. God bless you for making a difference.

John&Nancy Riggins

March 20, 2013

Steve was such a kind and positive person. He will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers for you all during this very difficult time.

Sue Callahan Ruth

March 20, 2013

Having been fortunate enough to go through all 12 years of school with Steve, he was an awesome person and I was proud to call him my friend. He's a sooner great and always a man of God. Prayers to all his family and have comfort knowing he and George will greet you together some day.

Mary Sharp

March 20, 2013

Our sincere sympathy to your family. May God
Wrap you in His Arms and comfort you all during this
Time.

Mark and Mary Sharp

Richard Owen

March 20, 2013

Rest In Peace, Kind Sir. You Were Truly One Of OU's Greats. My Very Best To Your Family. See You On The Other Side Some Beautiful Day.

Janet Stevens

March 20, 2013

To Davis Family I dont know you personally but I live by South Bend and am sending prayers to you all. GOD BLESS Janet

Rick Bryan Family

March 20, 2013

So very sorry for your sudden loss of Steve, our hearts and prayers are with you.

George Zellmer

March 20, 2013

God Bless the Davis Family

March 20, 2013

sorry for your loss,may you find comfort in these words"happy are those who mourn since they wll be comforted...matt.5:4.....

Terry Adams

March 20, 2013

Too soon but what a life, lived his dreams, anchored in faith, respected and beloved. God's peace Steve.

Paul White

March 20, 2013

Growing up with Steve and his brother George in Sallisaw was a gift I didn't really appreciate until much later in life. I hope his family will take comfort in knowing that Steve positively influenced the lives of so many people and that we'll all miss him.

Carla Vinyard-Martin

March 20, 2013

Pat, and the Davis family, so sorry for your loss and prayer being lifted for you during this time with strength that only God provides.

March 20, 2013

Sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the Hearer of prayer at this time. Psalm 65:2

Moore's Southlawn Chapel

March 20, 2013

May this tribute to Steve Davis provide the family and friends a forum to share their fondest memories and a blessing to the family at their time of loss.

Kevin & Kay Finnegan

March 20, 2013

Our prayers to the Davis family.

Michael and Julie McCormick

March 20, 2013

To The Davis Family:
It is evident that we were all given a wonderful gift in Steve Davis. My prayer is that your pain will be soothed and the void will be filled with God's Grace. Though most of us can't be there, know that all of us wish we could be.

March 20, 2013

Praying that God's loving comfort is felt by the Steve Davis family. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ our Lord, he now lives for all eternity.

carol

March 20, 2013

Steve was not only a role model on the field, but off the field. Remember him when he preached at First Baptist Church in Hominy, OK. My family had the pleasure of getting to know him at that time. My deepest sympathy. He will be greatly missed.

Carolyn Shockey

March 20, 2013

My deepest sympathies go out to the Davis family at this tragic time in the loss of Steve. I grew up and went to school with both Steve and his brother, George in Sallisaw, ok. They were both such characters and so full of life! May you treasure and cherish their memories.

Kayla Taylor

March 20, 2013

My heartfelt prayers to the Davis family. May Steve's love for life, live on in all of us.

Debbie Treadwell-Everett

March 19, 2013

I am so sorry about the loss of Steve. He came to First Baptist of Brownwood, Tx when I was in college at Howard Payne. He touched my life as I spoke with him personally. His testimony of his love for God touched many. So impressed that he made time for others when he was such a successful athlete. I am sure there will be many in heaven who will thank him for being a bold witness! Our world was blessed by his presence. May this family feel God's love and peace during this difficult time.

March 19, 2013

You will be missed, but know you and your brother are talking Faith and giving Bob and players guidance. Bo always be proud of dad!! We all are.

Tom & Rosemary Ikeda

March 19, 2013

Thank you for the memories. We loved watching you play football at OU. We followed your accomplishments in life RIP Steve Davis

Ric LaCivita

March 19, 2013

It was a privilege to be the producer for Steve during his years at both ABC Sports and CBS Sports. He was a joy to be around - fun, hard-working, and dedicated to excellence. He loved his Sooners and the Sooner Nation and has been taken from us much too soon. My deepest sympathies to his parents and brother. Rest in peace, old friend - you were truly one of the great talents on and off the football field!

kurt whiteside

March 19, 2013

Steve played football the way he lived his life - a winner . He won the most im portant game of all - eternal life . Thanks for the memories !

Lisa Kuntz

March 19, 2013

You were the reason I started following OU football. Thank you for sharing your talents and sharing your love for our Heavenly Father.

Bobby Elrod

March 19, 2013

Please accept our sincere condolences. Bobby Elrod and Family

Mark Collins

March 19, 2013

I never had heroes when I was a kid but Steve Davis was the closest thing to it back in the day. RIP

wayne hearon

March 19, 2013

Steve Davis, a great example of what OKLAHOMANs are all about. Thanks, Steve Davis, for being a great role model to fellow Oklahomans who watched, listened and learned by your life example and witness.

Susan "Thompson" Landers

March 19, 2013

I grew up across the highway from Steve's family in Sallisaw. I was some years younger and my Dad was a Black Diamond fan who followed Steve's progress to O.U. We had season tickets to see his glory days in the National Championships. I still remember those days fondly. I saw Steve at Panera Bread last fall and told him who I was and the first words out of his mouth were your Dad was a "huge" Black Diamond Booster. My most sincere, heartfelt condolences to the Davis Family.

Roger Hatfield

March 19, 2013

I only had a short one sided conversation with Steve Davis on a high school football field in Stilwell, Oklahoma. He helped me up of the ground and told me "God bless you". I hope to have another one some day. I will never forget how Steve impressed me that night at the age of 17.

Dean Krause

March 19, 2013

RIP Steve, as good a quarterback as you were, you were always a better person, the Sooner family will miss you dearly.

Paul Meeks & Family

March 19, 2013

I'm the same age of Steve Davis, & I accepted the Lord in 1977, I don't know when he did but I do know that I hope I touch people like he did for the Lord. In God's Love For His Family

Kyle Green

March 19, 2013

To the Steve Davis Family: My prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. May you feel the comfort and love of God. Understand that He is in charge and had a reason for taking Steve at this time. We will miss Steve. He was responsible for bringing many great memories to all Sooner Fans. He also set the example for all young men to follow through his faith and daily walk with God. This is something that is very rare among athletes. Heaven has become a better place today because Steve is there.

benny dixon

March 19, 2013

Benny Dixon
Steve you will be missed.I will miss those talks about life and I know you
were happier than you have ever been
the last few years. See you on the back nine. We will carry your earthly dreams on!!!

March 19, 2013

Steve was the best. I met him in the 70's when he and my brother Tinker were at OU. Steve was always a Great Man even when he was just a kid. He inspired all of those that knew him and he will be missed by all. A great SOONER. Dale Owens and family.

March 19, 2013

RIP Steve Davis.My sympathies go to all the family.

Keo and Mike Lynch

March 19, 2013

We are praying for your family at this time. Steve was such a wonderful person and full of life. I'm sure heaven is joyous right now at his coming. We will all be together soon. May Our Lord Jesus Christ give your family peace in this time.

Kathy Lorick

March 19, 2013

Steve,#5 you were the greatest quarterback our Sooners have EVER had! How fitting that your jersey bore the number of grace! My mind goes back to the greatest days of Sooner football, when it was truly fun.I remember being asked at Southeast High School (OKC) the Mon after KU, what would Steve Davis and my Sooners do. I responded, "come back and win the national championship!" I remember in one of your testimonies how you became our starting qb, "by process of elemination." Thank you for being such a great Sooner, but I thank you even more for having been my friend. Thank you for all the late night talks that no one ever knew about, just because you were such a caring person. Thank you for your advice that kept me out of an abusive relationship. Thank you that you never felt you were to good for someone. My heart is broken because you are gone but your leaving makes heaven sound a little sweeter. And since you're now in Heaven, would you please explain to Daddy my love for my Oklahoma Sooners! Thank you for being true! Thank you for never being ashamed of our Lord and Savior, "Thou good and faithful servant!" May God comfort your family, including the Sooner Nation, as only HE can. I LOVE YOU STEVE!!

Debi Walstad

March 19, 2013

Steve performed my wedding in Will Rogers park in the late 70's. I was his wife Judy's roommate. He flew us on many occasions to FCA speaking engagements. He was a hoot to spend time with, and was a constant inspiration in my life. I will miss that smile, his voice, and his joy. My condolences go out to his mom, Bo, and family.

Bill Forney, Jr.

March 19, 2013

Darrell Royal, Jimmy Harris, Jack Mildren and now Steve Davis....the Lord above will have some heated competition at QB !!!.....thanks for all of the wonderful memories, Steve....rest easy....you are now home.

Dewayne Mauldin

March 19, 2013

Our deepest sympathy to the Davis family. Than you for sharing part of your life with us.

Paul & Berenda Rose

March 19, 2013

We watched on television or listened on the radio to every game Steve played at OU.He was a great quarterback and a great person.May God bless his family.

Carter Coggburn

March 19, 2013

My favorite OU Quarterback ever!!! RIP

Steve Lewis

March 19, 2013

Our deepest symapathies go to all of the family. Steve will be greatly missed.
Steve Lewis Class of 75 Freshman.
Steve and Tammie lewis

Terry Sharp

March 19, 2013

I never had the opportunity to meet Steve Davis, but I knew him through his example of Christ. He will be missed.

John Vuylsteke

March 19, 2013

Remembering Steve as an advocate for what is right in athletics and in life. We lost one of the good guys this week. Peace. Class of '77

Paul Warren

March 19, 2013

Meeting #5 as a seven year old and getting to play football with him is a cherished memory. But his greatest impact on me was watching and listening to him preach, and live. We are truly blessed to have these days toegether. I will treasure them always! Blessings to the entire Davis family. May God's grace and comfort be with today.

david kempton

March 19, 2013

Not only a great Oklahoma native but a force nationally in college athletics and broadcasting. A wonderful person who will be very active in his new home. God bless his family!!

Rick Ballard

March 19, 2013

Thankful to have known the man beyond #5! You were living your life for Christ before I knew Him. May God bless your family in this time of loss.

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