MSGT. Robert Carroll Davidson

Robert Carroll "Bob" Davidson, age 91, of Newport, Tennessee (formerly Culloden, West Virginia), passed away on March 24, 2024.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Viola "Rachel" Davidson, and his brother, Melvin "Gene" Davidson, of Nitro, WV.

Bob is survived by his wife of 70 years, Shirley Ball Davidson of Newport, TN; sons, Steve (Linda) Davidson of Newport, TN, and Jim (Tammy) Davidson of Richmond, VA; siblings, Paul (Ellen) Davidson of Owensboro, KY and Marilyn Davidson; of Nitro, WV; grandsons, Bradley (Sarah) Davidson of Englewood, CO, Brian (Brittany) Davidson of Cartersville, GA, and Todd (Olivia) Davidson of Richmond, VA; great-grandchildren, Kajsa Davidson, Christopher Davidson, Timyah Smith, Tristan Davidson, Yasmine Davidson, Aubrey Davidson, Laurel Davidson, Abigail Bely, Hailey Davidson, Olivia Davidson, Samuel Davidson, Benjamin Bely, Zane Davidson and Rachel Jo Davidson.

Bob served in the US Navy for four years and first went to sea at age 16. He then served in the US Air Force, retiring as MSGT after 22 years. Following his 26-year military service, Bob began a second career of 19 years with the Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center in Huntington, WV, in their Biomedical Engineering Division and then as maintenance supervisor for all crafts. His careers brought him many learning opportunities, including chemical plant operations and the countless schools and training he received from the military.

He was a man of faith and served as an ordained deacon for over 50 years. The Lord also blessed him with his wonderful wife, Shirley. He credits her for faithfully supporting him and raising their two sons during his military career. When Steve married Linda Johnson and Jim married Tammy Ball, Bob was proud to consider both as his daughters. Known as 'Papaw' to all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was such a blessing to be around and learn from.

He was the ultimate "Mr. Fix It" and enjoyed teaching others from his vast knowledge. Bob was an avid Ham Radio operator Advanced Class (W8AFA), a First Class Radiotelephone FCC license holder, and maintained radio and TV stations.

Family and friends will gather on Wednesday, March 27, beginning at 5 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Newport, with Dr. Rich Lloyd officiating. Burial with full Air Force honors will be at Forest Memorial Park, Milton, WV, on Friday, March 29, at 11 am.

Memorials may be given to the First Baptist Church building fund.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Costner-Maloy & Brown Funeral Home.