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Paul Davis Obituary

Davis, Paul Robert

Paul Robert Davis, 94, passed from this physical world on January 27, 2023, surrounded by his family. His peaceful nature and strong faith led Paul to pursue a life as a minister for 70 years of service. Along with his gift of ministry, he was a thoughtful writer and published poet. Paul is survived by his five children, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; and his sister, Jean Gray. His parents, and his sister, Lois Basta, preceded him in death.

Services: Services will be held at First Congregational Church of Webster Groves. Visitation on Fri., March 17th from 4-7 p.m. A service to celebrate his life will take place on Sat., March 18th at 10 a.m.

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

Published by St. Louis Post-Dispatch on Mar. 12, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries

Robert B. Walker

June 12, 2024

On my nightstand are two books of poetry written by Paul Davis which bring the evening comfort for a day spent in ministry. He was one of my mentors when I attended seminary during the 1970s and I was honored to help lead worship with him a few times. He also led a pastors' retreat that focused on styles of preaching and how to craft a sermon. I took notes at that retreat and I should say that no one helped me to write my sermons more than Paul Davis. I am grateful for his humble sharing of his great gifts.

Dean Sieck

June 12, 2023

I can never forget Paul's preaching. He had such an interesting style and delivery--a poet in the pulpit. He served an interim ministry at Euclid Avenue Congregational Church UCC where I was a member--I believe it was in the mid 90s. I still have some of those sermons on tape. "Your own Creation Story." So moving.

Caroline Smith Megli

March 18, 2023

Paul Davis was gracious to dignify our request 50 years ago to "not mention God" when he officiated at our backyard Webster wedding. He also officiated at 2 of my 3 siblings and 1 of our 4 children´s weddings, the later outdoors in Wildwood. Paul discussed faith with our father, John Smith, and visited our mother, Yvonne Smith, on the last day of her life. For a time I was fortunate to correspond with Paul to receive his poems ("Battered Wagons" my favorite) and to get suggestions on mine. He was the kind of man we need more of.
Caroline Smith Megli, Portland, Oregon.

Hank and Christy Ehrenreich

March 14, 2023

I am so sorry that I am out of town and can´t be there to express my love and condolences to the family! Paul Davis came into our lives over 50 years ago. My mother Sigrid Woltzen and Paul connected through their writing. We will cherish our memories of First Congregational Church and Rev Davis. Paul was the minister at our wedding 43 years ago. He baptised both our boys. He delivered the eulogy at my fathers funeral. I know his children will miss him but the love we all share for Paul is all that matters in the end.

Patty Basta Lehman

March 10, 2023

Sending so much love to my cousins . He was an amazing brother to our mom and uncle to us. Always loved the letters he would send. He touched many peoples lives for sure.

Mary Fales

March 10, 2023

Reverend Davis was a special pastor. Each Sunday he would preach from the pulpit with words of inspiration, comfort, healing, joy, and the love of God. I often felt he knew just what I needed to hear that day. He was a gift and I´m so glad he served First Congregational Church of Webster Groves for so long. Rest peacefully, dear Paul.

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Memorial Events
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Mar

17

Visitation

4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

First Congregational Church of Webster Groves

Mar

18

Celebration of Life

10:00 a.m.

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