JAMES FRANKLIN DAVIS

JAMES FRANKLIN DAVIS, 74, of Auburn, passed away Saturday, May 12, 2018, at home with his family by his side after an extended illness. He was born Oct. 18, 1943 in Auburn. On June 9, 1963, he married Sherry (Allen) Davis in Augusta, Ga., where he was stationed at Fort Gordon. He entered service in 1960 and served eight years in the Army and two years in the Reserves. He also worked for Dana Corporation in Fort Wayne for 30 years, retiring in 2000. Jim was also a volunteer policeman and fireman in his younger years. During his working years, he was involved in the Fort Wayne Street Rod Club, the Shifters and owned several street rods at different times. After retirement from Dana, he enjoyed camping and snow birding in Florida, golfing and painting. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Sherry Davis of Auburn; son, Jimmy Davis of Alaska; daughter, Donna (Greg) Velpel of Auburn; two grandchildren, Cameron (Brandee) Smolinkse and Courtney Smolinske; and one great-grandchild, Grayson Chester. A memorial gathering is from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday at Pinnington Funeral & Cremation Services, 502 N. Main St., Auburn. To sign the online guestbook, visit www.pinningtonfh.com