Billy Davis

Obituary for Mr. Billy James Davis

Mr. Billy James Davis was born on October 13, 1936, in Pearl River County, Mississippi, to Essie Burge Davis and Benton Davis.

He began his working years at Ladner Farms in southern Mississippi before proudly serving his country in the United States Army. During his service, he was awarded honorable medals and worked in both the Artillery Division and the Nuclear Weapons Division in Louisiana.

Following his military service, He was also B5 nuclear missile unit

Stonewall, La. Mr. Davis entered the business world with American National Property and Casualty, based in Galveston, Texas. A natural leader and innovator, he quickly rose to the top of his field, becoming one of the top five agents in the company. His career was decorated with numerous honors, including the prestigious President's Award and induction into the Million Dollar Round Table on eight occasions. His work often took him to Dallas, Texas, where he helped develop new products, and later he became a successful franchise owner with thriving offices from Springfield, Missouri, to Clarksville, Tennessee.

Mr. Davis's business acumen also afforded him opportunities to travel the world. His work and leadership carried him to France, Scotland, Spain, England, Hong Kong, Germany, Greece, and beyond. He proudly served on several boards across Hopkinsville, Kentucky; Clarksville, Tennessee; and Galveston, Texas.

A man of deep faith, he was a devoted member of Trinity Parish Episcopal Church in Clarksville, Tennessee. After retiring from corporate insurance at age 55, he returned to his country roots, enjoying time at his Pass Christian Beach condo and Tennessee lakes. At 65, he pursued higher learning through his fellowship group, completing a four-year program at the University of the South in Sewanee.

Mr. Davis was a man of great generosity, known for giving jobs, cars, homes, clothing, and food to those in need. Quietly and humbly, he would deliver meals, donate anonymously, and even teach adults to read so they could further their education. During the holidays, he often slipped silver and gold coins into Salvation Army buckets, embodying his favorite scripture, Matthew 25:40.

A true connoisseur of life, he enjoyed Cajun, Southern, and Japanese cooking, gardening, canning produce with his 1936 Ford tractor, and filling his library with spiritual concordances. He delighted in New Orleans jazz, 1950s rock and roll, and country classics. Many will fondly remember him with his signature Quantum Cordova cigar in hand, smiling and laughing with his family.

He especially cherished his family-his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He often remarked that "the grandkids are the best, and the great-grands are even better."

He is survived by his loving daughters: Elizabeth "Beth" Davis of White House, TN; Robin Davis Killeen (Pat) of Gulfport, MS; and Vicky Davis Burge of Cleburne, TX.

Grandchildren:

Heather Arban Blanco (Eddie), Ft. Worth, TX

Jennifer Burge Melerine (Clint), Cleburne, TX

Justin C. "J.C." Thompson (Morgan)

Joshua Burge (Blair)

Justin Burge (Kelly)

Great-grandchildren:

Jordan Douglas James Thompson, Brooke, Jaxon, Davis, Ella Grace Burge, Myah and Zoey Blanco, Cameron and Cole Melerine, Bryce, Preston, and Parker Burge.

He is also survived by his brother Richard Davis (Marie); nephew Sam Davis; niece Deb Davis Calimlin (Mike); and extended family including Jr. Arizpe, Sonja Boehringer, and Stephanie Davis Miller.

Favorite Bible Verse

"In Matthew 25:40, Jesus states that whatever is done to 'the least of these, my brothers,' is done to Him. As a reminder to be kinder and less judgmental to one another."

Mr. Davis's kindness, wisdom, generosity, and humor will be remembered by all who were blessed to know him. Though the lake shores will feel quieter without his presence, his legacy of love and service will live on in his family and community.