Dr. Joseph Harrison Davis, MD, 88, retired chief medical examiner for Miami Dade County, FL, died peacefully in his sleep on March 19, 2013.

Born April 16, 1924 to Samuel and Adah Davis, he grew up in Scarsdale, NY and attended Lehigh University until he enlisted in the US Army during WWII. The Army sent him to Virginia Polytechnic Institute, Princeton University and the Long Island College of Medicine where he received his MD. He served in the Public Health Service which deployed him to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, where he met his wife, RoseMarie Lorentzen, a nurse at the Tacoma Indian Hospital.

Their growing family moved to New Orleans where he studied pathology at LSU before moving to Miami in 1956 to open the first Medical Examiner office with his mentor, Dr. Stanley H. Durlacher. After the sudden death of Dr. Durlacher he became the Chief Medical Examiner of Miami Dade County, the position he held for 40 years. During this time he pioneered advances in forensic medicine and public safety legislation. He trained many in the field of forensics and worked tirelessly and closely with detectives, doctors, nurses, lawyers, judges, engineers, legislators and the families of the bereaved.

He was a professor of Pathology, University of Miami, served as Chairman of the Medical Examiners Commission, State of Florida, President of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, President of the National Association of Medical Examiners, Commissioner on the National Commission on the Future of DNA Evidence and the National Medicolegal Review Panel. He was a member of Alpha Omega Alpha, Long Island College of Medicine, Iron Arrow Society and Omicron Delta Kappa, University of Miami, and Phi Beta Delta, American Academy of Forensic Sciences. He was a lifelong member of the NRA and the NMLRA.

He received numerous awards and honors for his service including the Milton Helpburn Laureate from the National Academy of Medical Examiners, The Gerber-Busbee Award from the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners, the William R. Maples Award for Lifetime Contributions in Forensic Medicine, University of Florida, The Distinguished Rotarian Award from the Rotary Club of Miami, and received the Gradwohl Laureate, the highest honor in forensic science, from the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Aldean Walner; brother, Robert Davis; his dear granddaughter, Janet Cotee; and beloved wife, RoseMarie.

He is survived by child-ren, Cathy Eby, Frankie Ferguson, Susan Towson, Margene Kuersteiner, Bobbi (Budgie) Malinski, Barbara Davis, and son, Joseph Davis Jr. He is also survived by 37 grandchildren and great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Parkinson's research, Cystic Fibrosis research, or the Rotary Club of Miami.

A celebration of life will be held in Monticello, FL on Saturday, April 6, 2013 at 2:00 pm at Christ Episcopal Church - Address: 425 N Cherry St, Monticello, FL 32344.

In Miami, a memorial service will be held on Tuesday, April 16, 2013 at 10:00 am at the Miami Dade County Auditorium - Address: 2901 W Flagler Street, Miami, FL. Services in Miami will be under the direction of Van Orsdel Family Funeral Chapels.

The family can receive condolences online at www.culleysmeadowwood.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by FloridaToday on Mar. 24, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Dr. Joseph Davis, M.D.

Sponsored by Davis family.

54 Entries

Ramesh Nyberg

November 11, 2022

Thank you, Doc Davis, for being such a great professional--and great friend--to us detectives at Miami-Dade Homicide. As an investigator, it was truly an honor to have your expertise in our corner. You always seemed to have time to listen to every one of us, and you took a sincere interest in helping us solve problems. You were the greatest, and you made all of us better.

Arthur R Copeland,MD PhD

June 8, 2021

To a Great Chief medical examiner , Metro Dade County 1982-1991 with deepest sympathy and condolences
sincerely
Arthur R Copeland,MD PhD

Barbie Davis (daughter #6)

April 17, 2021

Happy Birthday Pops! On April 16 you would have been 97. But you had a great, long life full of love and laughter and good food! I think about you and mom all the time. Last week I had dinner with Karlee and Gary, Adah and Bowen at your house on Lake Bradford. I remember you noticing the little pickup truck parked in front of the Mag Shack while Marge and Chris were in the Bahamas. (It was Gary's truck when he and Karlee were first together.) Now they are married with darling Adah and Bowen, living in your house which is STILL filled with love and laughter and good food.

Carol Morris. Daughter Jennifer and grand daughter my baby Lauren in Miami Fl. When mom worked for Dr Davis

Theresa Parsons

March 16, 2019

Dear Barbara and the entire family,
When my mother the late, Carol Morris had been up here I knew that she had wanted to visit with her mentor and former boss, Dr Davis, I too wanted to visit as I've been an implant to Tallahassee for 30 years now.
Dr Davis always had a smile on his face, when I would at times go to work with mom, I had the opportunities to speak to Dr Davis and it was the opportunity to learn each time.
Mom had the fond memories of typing up high case profile books and more for the M.E.'s and always enjoyed Dr Davis and the opportunities he provided for her.
She was while in Tallahassee for a short time, was unsure if a visit would be good.
Mom missed you Dr Davis greatly and if she were alive today I know she would agree.
You are always remembered and in my thoughts Barbara I will hopefully have the opportunity to meet you one day.
My apologies for taking so long to post.
Mom passed away in June of 2018.
Here is a photo of mom when she worked with Dr Davis and I know she regretted leaving and going to help open another ME office with a former M.E.

Valerie Rao

March 15, 2019

I remember him a lot and always tell my staff how much he taught us and how much insight he had into medical examiner issues that are pertinent today as they were when he was with us. I shall always be grateful to him. Valerie Rao

Theresa Parsons

June 14, 2018

Our families most sincere condolences as mom worked closely with Dr Davis.

Barbara Davis

April 16, 2018

Dad's 94th birthday would have been today. Taking some time to look through some old photos of him and mom.

Michael Davis

September 11, 2017

Was so sorry to hear about Joe. Best from all your Davis family in Ohio.

Dad with a black powder pistol at Richard's...having fun!!

Barbara Davis

April 16, 2016

Dad shooting a black powder pistol at Richard McClelland's home. Lot's of great memories there!

Poppa Doc in Richards shop

Barbara Davis

April 16, 2016

Today, April 16th, was dad's birthday. He would have been 92. I miss him every day. Today I spent several hours with his grandsons Joey and Harper who have grown a lot since dad passed away. He would have loved watching them play together today. Great reports cards, too! Just like his childhood.
His friend Richard McClelland sent me some photos this week. I will upload a few of them here today. Great times with cannons and black powder revolvers! Dad;s idea of a great time with friends.

Dear friends and colleagues.

Barbara Davis

April 16, 2016

David Deehl

December 28, 2015

The film Concussion reminded me of Dr. Davis, including the work he did on pesticides and motorcycles.

Jope Davis with Skull at Richard McClelland's house

Barbara Davis

December 27, 2015

Tony Broussard MD

December 26, 2015

Yes, always to be missed, but all do remember.

Joann Habermann

December 25, 2015

I am responding to this obit almost three years late. Dr. Davis hired me as a forensic pathology fellow in 1997 and then retired, leaving me in a maelstrom of two warring Chiefs. It was a very ugly situation.
Nonetheless, my correspondence with Dr. Davis continued for twenty odd years. He was a magnificent person with enormous integrity who most often had answers to many difficult medical issues and problems.
Although I soon left forensic pathology for surgical pathology, Dr. Davis was always an email buddy.
In the last five years, I became perhaps too busy with my practice and so Dr. Davis became a less regular correspondent.
I pains me that I never gave Dr. Davis a proper send off and so I will have to do so in my memory.
So, goodbye Dr. Davis. You were one of a kind.

daughter #6

April 15, 2014

April 16th, was dad's birthday. Tomorrow will also be the 1st anniversary of his memorial in Miami Dade. Reminds me that dad had so many, many dear friends. I miss seeing you all at visits to "Lakewood". Fond memories.

Barbara Davis

March 23, 2014

Thinking of you and mom. Spent the week of March 17th-20th with Aunt Goody, remembering good times with Uncle Norman. Drove to Deception Pass, LaConner, and all around Anacortes. Everything reminded me of you, dad. At every great meal we talked about how much you would have loved it all! Returning to Seattle for my flight I had a clear view of Mt Ranier, which you climbed with Lou Whittaker.

April 16, 2013

To Dearest Dr. Davis, A Teacher to Remember:
We will remember you always.
Chiang-Shin Liu, DDS, 1994 Fellow Trainee
From Taiwan

Jan Fransella

April 6, 2013

Your father was of a dying breed. A great man in every respect. He will be truly missed.Sending the family love and blessings at this time of celebration.

Susan Arnold

April 6, 2013

We are thinking of you, Julie, and your family. We are very happy we had an opportunity to know your grandfather. He will be in our hearts always and his wisdom will be passed on to all generations to come. Great people are cherished forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you celebrate his life. Love to all, Dr John, Susan Arnold and family

April 5, 2013

My prayers are with each of you during this difficult time
M.Gibbs (St.Ptersburg Fla)

Deedee Kunde Cheek

April 4, 2013

A feiend of our family for over 50 years ....there are too many stories and fun times to share about this spectacular man. My dad (George Kunde) and Joe are again shooting the breeze and having a blast. Whenever Joe was around I knew we were going to hear a great story and laugh. I'll remember him always.

Rocky Shih

April 3, 2013

To Dearest Dr. Davis, my Mentor forever:

TO SIR WITH LOVE.

Rocky Shih, MD, 1989 Fellow trainee

Sharmaine Tyler-Luke

April 1, 2013

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Murphree Walt

March 30, 2013

A truly great man who impacted so many people and did it with humility and honesty. He really did make a difference in this world and one that will carry on over time.

Jamie Downs

March 30, 2013

Dr. Davis continues to mean so much to so many. Please know that he is dearly loved, fondly remembered, and sorely missed.
It is indeed a privilege to have had the opportunity to have known him. Thank you for sharing him with us.
On this dark day, may light perpetual continue to shine on a truly great man.

March 29, 2013

Barbara, so sorry for your loss! Praying God's comfort for you and your family! ~ Donna Davenport Brown ~

Rosemarie Forech

March 29, 2013

May God Bless your family.

Rosemarie Forech

March 29, 2013

May God Bless your family. Your memory will forever last.

Tony Broussard

March 28, 2013

What can I say that hasn't been said about this great man? As a Forensic Pathologist who trained under Dr. Davis, I know he instilled in me many lessons well beyond his encylopedic knowledge of the science. He taught us how to use that to become Forensic Pathologists and Solid Citizens of the community. Not a day goes by when I don't reflect on some wisdom related nugget he professed, and/or I ask myself the question: What would Dr. Davis do? Usually not the easy path to follow. He will be greatly missed.

Larry Bedore

March 27, 2013

We are all now better servants to grieving families owing to Dr. Joe's mentoring patience and wisdom.

Joy Hanni

March 27, 2013

There's a new star in the sky & it's name is Joe. Joe will be greatly missed, a wonderful person, a good friend. May happy memories bring comfort to us all.

Jennifer Pritt

March 27, 2013

Dr. Davis's service to Florida will never be forgotten. His passion and dedication to his his work is a testament to all public servants in our state. Jennifer Cook Pritt (FDLE)

Valerie Rao

March 27, 2013

He was generous to share his knowledge and told us the most interesting stories about the unusual cases he was involved with. I learned a lot from him and am ever grateful. May his soul rest in peace.

Eunice Cooper

March 27, 2013

Dr Davis wowed me as a rookie homicide detective.The passion and professionalism he displayed was amazing.I consider myself lucky to have known him and especially to have watch him work.

Jamie Marlowe, Ed.D

March 27, 2013

The sadness of learning of your death overwhelms me; the memory of your life bolsters my resolve to continue as you have taught me..."Jamie, we all must make a positive contribution to our fellow man." Though my heart aches with great pain with the passing of you, my mentor, my very being rejoices with the knowledge that sure & certain you will meet your God.

March 26, 2013

RIP Joe Davis
Superlatives are not enough to say for this man!!!
Art Burns Jacksonville

March 26, 2013

Ruthie and I wish to extend our deepest sympathy to the family, and reflect on the many happy times that we had with Dr.Joe and RoseMarie. Dr. Davis will always be remembered as my mentor, esteemed colleague, and personal friend. The effect of his influence on those of us that had the privilege of knowing and learning from him will never fade or be forgotten.
Jay S. Barnhart, Jr., M.D. Retired Associate Miami Dade Medical Examiner

Bart Greene

March 26, 2013

When I was a lawyer handling medical malpractice cases in Miami, I called Dr. Davis to ask if I could observe autopsies at the ME's office. I thought it would be a good way to learn something about anatomy.

Dr. Davis did not hesitate: "This is a public office and you are a member of the public."

So I went, several times. It was a very useful experience. I am grateful to Dr. Davis and to the other doctors who took the time to explain things to me and to answer my questions.

Dr. Davis was a great public servant.

March 25, 2013

Frankie, Cathy and other family members, Dr. Joe Davis' lectures were like attending a rock concert. He made forensic pathology exciting. We are very sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Peter and Leonor Zies

March 25, 2013

Frankie - our deepest condolences to you and your family on your great loss. Sending love and prayers. Bob and June Sarnowski

Kim Rowe

March 25, 2013

Barbara: I am one of your classmates from Westminster. You invited me to listen to a lecture your Dad gave trainees for the Miami-Dade County Police Department. I have never forgotten the experience of hearing your father's lecture - he was brilliant. Truly a legacy in his field. I also have fond memories of our days at Westminster and our friendship. I extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. May God's grace give you peace that goes beyond understanding to get you through the upcoming days. With warm regards, Kim Rowe

Dimitri Contostavlos, M.D.

March 25, 2013

This loss is not only to professional colleagues like myself and so many others, but to family and friends who have benefited from contact with this compassionate and considerate man.

Celso Perez

March 25, 2013

Dear Barbara,
I'm very sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Let me know if there's anything I can do for you.

Richard L Ward

March 25, 2013

To the family of Dr. Joe Davis
As a retired Police Major from Miami-Dade Police I think that all of us in the Law Enforcement community have greatly benefited from Dr. Davis' contributions and lessons. In the late 1960's I served for a short 3 years in Homicide and personally benefited from his assistance. He always treated you like a professional colleague never condescending. More than once he came to a scene to sort out what I had considered as baffling.
In later years I enjoyed his stories of his experiences at various group luncheons and upon his move to Tallahassee he continued to share via email. I was fortunate to attend his tribute in early 2011.
Thanks Doc Davis for everything

Dick Ward

Lake Norman, NC

DP Hughes

March 24, 2013

Great One
The last time I saw you, you were leaving our house with our wonderful Barbie after a 4th of July celebration, made complete with your cannon.

I said, “Boss, this is the part I don't like.” You answered, “Leaving's a part of living, Bookm.” I guess you're right.

I can see you smiling, because you now know what's on the other side. You always were a step ahead of us.

Peace, my mentor, my friend.
dp

Bruce A. Hyma, M.D.

March 24, 2013

A legacy of compassion, integrity and professional, public service that will live on in hearts and minds of all those who were privileged to be mentored by him. We will miss your physical presence, but your legacy is with us daily.

Mark Trammell

March 24, 2013

Dr. Davis, Thank you for taking time out of your very busy schedule to teach new FHP Traffic Homicide Investigators at the FHP Training Academy in Tallahassee. I was one of those new traffic homicide investigators. Your service to your country, the state of Florida, Dade County and many generations of law enforcement officers will be remembered with sincere respect and appreciation.

Great time with a great man

David Rivers

March 24, 2013

I spent 27 years as an officer and sergeant with what is now the Miami-Dade Police Department. Twenty of those years were spent in the Homicide Bureau. Dr. Joe Davis (referred to by a few close friends as "The Great One") was one of a kind. There are men and women all over this world that have studied and learned at the feet of Dr. Joe. He always had time for new detectives and was available anytime to answer questions. I could go on for pages trying to describe the impact Dr. Davis had on our lives and careers. Suffice it to say that there is a large hole left in the field of Forensic Medicine. Other professionals will undoubtedly leave more polished memories about Dr. Davis but he was one of a kind. I already miss him and his lovely wife. To Barbara and the rest of his family I thank you for the opportunity you gave me just over a year ago and I loved your father. RIP Dr. D.

Carol Ann Burt-Morris

March 24, 2013

Sincere condolences to family and friends. I worked with Dr. Davis. He kept me on my toes from 1979-2000.

Lee & Bill Huba

March 24, 2013

Dear Frankie & Family, So sorry to read about your Dad. I know how much he meant to all of you. Know that you are in are hearts & prayers. God Bless you all.

Perry S. Turner

March 24, 2013

Dr. Davis was a consumate Professional. We in Dade County were Blessed to have him as our 1st Medical Examiner and a 40 year Tenure. He was straight as an arrow and a true friend to Law Enforcement. Thank You for your Distiguished Service to our Community, State and Nation.
Perry S. Turner, Chief of Police, South Miami PD, Retired
Inspector General/Assistant Secretary DJJ, Retired
Past President, Dade County Association Chiefs of Police

David Deehl

March 24, 2013

Perhaps the greatest public service in Miami-Dade County history. And, he was always able to keep a sense of humor and to mentor so many young professionals. I remember the outpouring of love at his retirement picnic. Dr. Davis will be missed.

Ellen Cohan

March 22, 2013

A light of inspiration and amazement. You always kept me on my toes. I will always love my second family and I cherish the wonderful memories.

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