Wayne Davis

M. Wayne Davis of Valdese, formerly of Hickory, born January 8, 1948, entered into Glory after a long and courageous battle with cancer on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. He was the son of the late France "Fireball" and Gladys Wilson Davis, from Icard, NC and was preceded in death by brothers, Mike and Terry Davis, as well as grandson, Joshua Abernethy. Wayne was known and loved by those of all walks of life. He loved them all and was called "The Legend" by the ones who knew him most. His southern drawl and infectious laugh stirred all who came in contact with him to love, laughter, and if they entered into Wayne's presence feeling down, he had a way of making them leave with a smile. Wayne was a tremendous athlete, lettering in football, basketball and baseball in high school and even reached the professional ranks in baseball before being drafted into the Vietnam War. He was a proud U.S. Marine, loved his country and as a lead machine gunner, on two occasions, received meritorious combat promotions due to his bravery and leadership in the war. Many of his stories were never told until later in life. One of the more memorable stories were his experiences on what would become known as "Hamburger Hill". He always credited his life being spared in Vietnam to the little Bible his Mamaw Hill gave him before he left for war, keeping it next to his heart and reading it often. Wayne loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, family, church, friends and country, and was willing to protect and defend them. Those left to cherish his memory, his jokes and laughter are: his wife of 42 years Debi Rowe Davis, Son Dustin Davis and wife Autumn (their children Brantley and Bristol), Daughters: Michelle Clay Townsend and husband Scottie (their child Jordyn Townsend and wife Katie Beth and great grandson Weston. Additional great granddaughter Kalli Abernethy), Bridget Davis Robinson and husband Rex (their children Alexis (Alex), Ace, Jag, Reese and Dash), Leslie Davis Michaels and husband Clinton (their children Lindsay, JR and Faith), Brother: Randy Davis, and Wayne's brother from another mother, camping and traveling partner, John Morris and wife Pat. Surviving and deceased are many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins of whom Wayne was always close and loved. To all the young men Wayne coached in baseball throughout the years, and later helped Dusty coach, he loved the game and he loved you all. Wayne was a member of Liberty Baptist Church and a celebration of his life will be held on Saturday July 28, 2018 at 4 PM. Liberty Baptist Church is located at 1292 Cape Hickory Rd, Hickory, NC 28601. Pastor Gene Gouge and Wayne's Son, Dusty Davis will walk you down memory lane of his life, love and laughter. The family will receive friends after the memorial service. Please stick around and share some stories as we produce the documentary "Wayne Davis, The Legend". All of your stories would really be a blessing to the family. Interment will be at the Salisbury National Cemetery in Salisbury, NC. Heritage Funeral Home in Valdese, NC will be handling the arrangements. Many thanks go out to Catawba Regional Hospice Home Health Care and to the hospital itself. Memorials may be made to Liberty Baptist Church Building Fund or to Catawba Regional Hospice.