Edward Joseph Davis

Edward Joseph Davis, age 94, of Hillsboro, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, in Georgetown, Ohio. He was born on December 3, 1931, in Dayton, Ohio, the son of the late Clarence Ellsworth Davis and Leora Agnes (Knoll) Bunnell.

Starting in middle school Edward lived on a farm in Sinking Springs, Ohio, where he graduated from high school. Edward proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Following his military service, he started pre-med classes at Xavior University. During this time, he met, courted and married Mary C. Elton. He spent many years in different roles including quality control, manufacturing and meat packing. He was known for his steady work ethic and commitment to providing for his family. In retirement, he fulfilled years of private and collegiate study to act as a judge at orchid shows.

He was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Hillsboro for over 65 years and a member of the Knights of Columbus, spending years teaching religious education. He sang in multiple choirs during his lifetime, beginning at a Catholic school in Dayton.

Edward also proudly earned his associate degree in Horticulture from Southern State Community College. He enjoyed gardening and cultivating flowering plants. Every Spring was preceded by planning a season of planting and enjoying the handiwork. After his children were grown up, he travelled to visit them and grandchildren, taking pride in their accomplishments. He will be remembered as a devoted family man and missed by all who knew him.

Edward is survived by his four sons, Edward "Joe" (Melissa) Davis, Jr., John A. (Becky) Davis, Jeffrey A. Davis, Rodney Hampton, Joachim S. "JD" (Vicki) Davis; and his special friend Kay Nuegebauer, along with sixteen grandchildren, Joshua, Zachary, Richard and Calista Davis; Brandy Hoff, Sadie Molten and Mileah Lane; Alexis Mager, Briana and Jacob Davis; Cole, Brian and Tory Hampton; Luke, Nicholas, Matthew, and Stephen Davis; fifteen great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two daughters, Juliana M. (Rodney) Hampton and Phoebe Davis; two siblings, Patrick and Charles.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday March 11, 2026, at the Turner & Son Funeral Home, 602 N. High Street, Hillsboro, OH 45133. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday March 12, 2026, at the St. Mary Catholic Church, 212 S. High Street, Hillsboro, OH 45133. Father Scott Morgan will be the Celebrant. Burial, with military honors presented by the Highland County Veteran Honor Guard, will follow in the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery.