Don Davis

Donald Jackson Davis, 85, passed away on February 10, 2025, in Lampasas, Texas.

Don was born on September 17, 1939, on the Davis Ranch to W. Forrest Davis and C. Roberteen Kendrick Davis.  Don grew up with a strong sense of family and community.  He was active in the FFA where he showed sheep and steers.  He graduated from Briggs High School in 1957 and attended John Tarleton in Stephenville on a basketball scholarship.  His love for the outdoors led him to a long and fulfilling career with Texas Parks and Wildlife, where he worked as a game biologist for 33 years.

Shortly after beginning his career, Don was drafted to serve his country in the U.S. Army.  Stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, he dutifully completed his service before returning to his position at Texas Parks and Wildlife, where he continued his work preserving the natural beauty of Texas.

Although they knew each other in school, shortly after high school he started dating his best friend and love of his life, Bonnie Ferguson.  They dated for 7 years before marrying on August 21, 1964 at Lampasas Primitive Baptist Church.  Don wanted to make sure he returned home from his service and had a good job to support his new bride.  They were one for over 60 years.

Two years after they married, they welcomed a little girl who kept both of them very busy with stock shows and play days.  Don volunteered for years and served on the board of directors for the Williamson County Livestock Association.

He also served for 32 years on the Board of Directors for the Davis Cemetery Association.

Don's greatest joy in life was his family.  He cherished his wife, Bonnie Davis; his daughter, Iva Davis Nuckles, and her husband Steve; his granddaughter, Dakota Davis; his step-granddaughter, Brittany Nuckles, and his great-granddaughter, Rilee Davis.  His devotion to them was unwavering-his girls and son-in-law always came first in his heart.

Beyond his family and career, Don had a deep love for ranching.  He found peace in watching over his cattle for hours on end, appreciating the simple beauty of the land he called home.  His faith was also an important part of his life, and he was a member of Florence Primitive Baptist Church.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Roberteen Davis, and his uncle, J. Houston Davis, whom he was very close to.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, February 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel on Third Street in Lampasas, Texas.  Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service.  Following the funeral, Don will be laid to rest beside his mom and dad at Davis Cemetery near Watson.

His memory will live on through those who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Davis Cemetery Association through his daughter.