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Youngstown, Ohio

John Davis Obituary

On Friday, January 27, 2023, John E. Davis, Jr., loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at the age of 75. John was born on August 31, 1947, in Philadelphia, PA to John and Luciene Davis. He graduated from Frankfort High School in PA then enlisted and served in the US Naval Academy with the Naval Academy Band. After his service, he went on to graduate with honors from the Philadelphia College of Performing Arts in 1973. On October 22, 1977, John married his longtime girlfriend and love of his life, Toni Lynn Diana of Hillsville, PA. They have been married for 45 years and raised three daughters. John began his career in Philadelphia as a music arranger and record producer, making multiple hit records and working with many well-known artists. In 1975, he formed The Monster Orchestra and enjoyed huge success as the premiere Disco Orchestra of the era winning the billboard Magazine Award as best disco orchestra in 1979 and 1980. In 1981, John relocated with his family to Los Angeles, CA, where he met producer Aaron Spelling and began a long career of scoring many well-known television shows. John won an ASCAP award for seven seasons of having written the most music for a television series. He won an ASCAP award and gold album award for his Beverly Hills 90210 theme song. John also won the Nashville songwriters award for the hit song (I'll be your) Dream Lover. Of all his achievements, John would always say the most special award he ever received was his family. He was known as a family man and for always bringing a smile to your face. John was preceded in death by his father, John E. Davis Sr., his mother, Luciene Ann Davis, and his twin brother, Joseph Davis. He is survived by his wife, Toni Davis; his three daughters, Diana Davis, Leigh Devine, and Lisa Kelly; his son-in-law, Patrick Kelly; and his four grandchildren, Jordin Devine, Ryan Kelly, John Kelly, and Brooke Kelly. Friends may call from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Friday, February 3, 2023 at the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, 270 North Main Street, Poland, OH 44514. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral Home with Deacon John Terranova officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley, 1300 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Youngstown, OH 44510.

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

Published by Mahoning Matters on Feb. 1, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for John Davis

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Greg Sisco

August 3, 2025

Thank you for keeping us dancing.Rip

Gordon Arnum

March 13, 2025

My condolences to the family of this great muscian. His disco hit "Up Jumped The Devil" was the first song I danced Hustle to back late 70s. The dance would get crowded fast when the song started. You will forever be in my heart as someone who made era so special and great to be at the Disco. Thank you.

Ray B

August 4, 2023

I never knew you but your music has bought so much joy to this 61 year old man then and now. I'm so sorry to hear of your passing. You will be remembered not just by your friends and family but by all of us who your music brought love, joy and poignant memories. Thank-you!

Rael

February 4, 2023

Amazing artist whose music brought so much joy in my youth. Honored to have briefly chatted with you and to have known the humbleness that you were. R.I.P. John, you're works/classics will live on forever...

Jerry Magers

February 2, 2023

His music was truly Love Magic....one of mybfav Disco songs...always filled the dancefloor. So sorry for your loss. He was one of the greats!

Mauro

February 2, 2023

Condolences gran master

DONALD PORTER

February 2, 2023

Another Genius has left us!
His legacy will live forever and will bring happiness to many future generations!
May the light be with his soul!
D. PorterHouse

Terri Haggerty

February 2, 2023

RIP John. I was saddened to read you passed. We met a few times. I worked with Toni, your beautiful wife. May you rest in the arms of the Lord.

Doug Barnes (DJ)

February 2, 2023

I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Davis. I began my DJ career in 1973, and from getting the first 'Monster Orchestra' record, I was an instant fan. Countless hits, countless hours of listening to and dancing to his music. RIP Mr. Davis, and thank your for sharing your music for the World to enjoy.

DJ Chris Philps

February 1, 2023

May You Rest On in Musical Peace Brother John, Thank You for the Music & your Wonderful Monster Orchestra, sending Peace & Love from London England

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Memorial Events
for John Davis

Feb

3

Visitation

11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home (Poland)

270 North Main Street, Poland, OH 44514

Feb

3

Memorial service

12:00 p.m.

Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home (Poland)

270 North Main Street, Poland, OH 44514

Funeral services provided by:

Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home - Poland

270 North Main St, Youngstown, OH 44514

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