Wade Russell Davis

1956 - 2025

Wade Russell Davis, of Apple Valley, CA, passed away at his home, surrounded by family, on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, at the age of 69, after a sudden but courageous battle against cancer. In his final weeks, he was comforted by family. Wade was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, father figure, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud U.S. Navy veteran. He was born in Covina, CA, on Aug. 13, 1956. He was the son of Frankie Lou Davis (née Barnes) and James Richard Davis, and is predeceased by his brother, Tom.

Wade grew up in Hacienda Heights and graduated from Wilson High School in 1974. After high school, Wade enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served aboard the destroyer tender USS Samuel Gompers (AD-37) from 1974 to 1977. In his personal life, Wade enjoyed taking care of animals of all kinds, bestowing affectionate (and often amusing) nicknames on his grandkids, and working on all sorts of projects in his garage-from a '63 Ford Thunderbird to handcrafted woodwork. He especially enjoyed crafting toys and furniture for his family.

Any conversation with Wade was a good one. Sometimes he cracked sly jokes. Sometimes he would sit with you through an action movie, just for the company. But no matter the setting, his easygoing, cool-cat personality always came through. He could keep you on your toes in the best way-never loud, but always present. Always Wade.

Like all of us, he had his flaws. But unlike so many, Wade owned them, and he worked to grow, not just for himself, but for the people he loved. He was a man who respected others and was respected in return. He was a grandfather who was there during the important moments, attending weddings, graduations, or birthdays; but also there in the quiet, ordinary moments, by visiting family or talking over the phone. He exuded humor, wisdom, calm, and love, often without realizing it. It showed, and it will live on through the lives of those he touched. Throughout his life, Wade was loved, and he will continue to be loved, always.

Wade will be remembered by his many relatives, loved ones, and friends. He is survived by his wife, Leonor Davis (née Gonzalez); former spouse Alma Davis (née Sanchez), with whom he shared three daughters: Bernadette (m. Manning), Sabrina (m. May), and Alethea (m. Janocha); along with his many cousins, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and an ever-growing family.

As a Christian, Wade believed in the teachings of Jesus Christ. May his soul rest peacefully with God in Heaven.