Raymond Davis

Raymond Davis, 60, of Batesburg, passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025. Born on September 3, 1964, in Newberry County, he was a son of the late Gladys McCormick Davis and David Davis.

Raymond dedicated his life to education and was a beloved teacher and coach. His career began in Lexington County School District Three, later taking him to Saluda School District for a few years before returning to Lexington Three, where he remained until his retirement. Raymond had a deep passion for helping students succeed and firmly believed that every child could learn when given the opportunity. Over the years, he was humbled by the many cards, letters, and kind words from former students whose lives he touched.

A true sportsman at heart, Raymond had a lifelong love for athletics. He coached in the Dixie Youth leagues of Gilbert and Lexington and was actively involved in school sports, coaching middle school football, assisting with varsity football, leading middle school basketball, and assisting with JV baseball. One of his greatest joys was coaching his daughter Lexie in softball, a role he cherished deeply. He inspired his players and everyone around him with the motto, "Never practice for second place," always encouraging others to believe in themselves and reach for the stars.

Raymond was also a man of deep faith. A devoted member of Clyde’s Chapel Southern Methodist Church, he served faithfully on the Board of Stewards, taught Sunday School, and sang in the choir. He was always ready to share God’s word, encouraging others to "live like it’s your last day." Raymond was equally proud to share a love of music with his daughters, singing His praises one song at a time. He was the driving force behind their Southern Gospel group, R & L 2.0, and took great pride in watching Raimee and Lexie use their talents to glorify God through music.

He often said his therapy was found in the yard, cutting grass, tending to his flowers, and simply admiring the beauty of God’s creation. It brought him peace, and he took pride in keeping everything just right.

Surviving are his loving wife of 30 years, Melissa "Missy" Davis; and their beautiful daughters, Raimee Alexis and Lexie Mariah, who were truly the lights of his life. He believed in making each day count and creating memories with those he loved most. Also surviving are his sister, Rosa Lee Fulmer (Mike); along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Johnny Davis, and his sister, Sadie Riddlehoover.

A funeral service to celebrate Raymond’s life will be held at 4 o'clock on Sunday, August 3rd at Milton Shealy Funeral Home, with interment to follow at Clyde’s Chapel Southern Methodist Church Cemetery. The service will be officiated by Rev. Tony Curcio. Family will receive friends beginning at 2 o'clock prior to the service on Sunday, and then following the burial in Clyde's Chapel Southern Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Active pallbearers will be Drew Slice, Caleb Fulmer, Zach Fulmer, Owens Shealy, Jared Long, and Grig Sawyer. Honorary pallbearers will be the Band of Brothers as well as the coaching staff of Batesburg-Leesville.  Attendees are encouraged to honor Raymond’s memory by wearing Batesburg-Leesville Panther or Carolina Gamecock colors to the service.

"Go get 'em Tiger"