B.A. Degree - Talladega,
College, Talladega, Alabama
M.S. Degree-Tuskegee
Institute. Tuskegee, Alabama
Ph.D. Degree University of ldaho, Moscow, ldaho
March 16, 2022, Dr. William Conan Davis passed away. He was doing his favorite things in life, scientific research and writing his memoirs. He was the last surviving child of Kince and Laura Davis. He is preceded in death by Ossie Davis, Essie Davis Morgan, Kenneth Davis, and James Davis. He is survived by his wife Ocia Davis and his children, Cheryl Davis and Mark Davis (Melody) four grandchildren Evelyn Tanner, Ian Morrison, Zachary Matthews, and Kallie Morrison and 2 great-grandchildren Dallas and Malyk.
William was born to Kince Chatman & Laura Cooper Davis on August 22, 1926. in Segregated Way Cross, Georgia.He grew up in Valdosta, Georgia, attended and graduated from Dasher High School in 1950. Upon graduation he lived in New York and attended City College of New York. During his second year he was drafted to serve in the United States Army. After serving he served in the United States Army Reserves where he earned an honorable discharge in 1959. As a reservist, he attended Talladega College, Talladega, Alabama where he majored in Chemistry and minored in Mathematics. He was involved in extracurricular activities; the National Honor Society and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.. He graduated in 1956.
From 1956 to 1958 William was awarded a George Washington Carver/ Ford Foundation Scholarship to study at Tuskegee Institute, Tuskegee, Alabama with a M.S. Degree in Chemistry and Mathematics.
Upon graduation from Tuskegee Institute, William followed the "go west young man" trail and took off to Washington State, Pullman, Washington where he was employed in the Division of Industrial Research with Dr. Mark Adams, which led to the University of ldaho, Moscow, ldaho.
Through hard work and sacrifice, Wiliam was the first Black man to get his Ph. D. degree in 1965 from the University of ldaho, majoring in Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry.
William Conan Davis has numerous publications - beginning with Dr. Roy Chatters, Associate Nuclear Engineer, Washington State University; United Medical Laboratory in Portland, Oregon to M.K.Ticku, The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas - to Professor Emeritus at St.Philip's. College. His legacy at St. Phillip's College: The William C. Davis Science Building and The William C. Davis Scholarship Fund. The Fund awarded a scholarship for the 2021-2022 academic year to Jose Rodriguez.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Colonial Funeral Home.
5 Entries
MaryEsther
October 18, 2023
As a former student of Dr. Davis, I met in the late 1980's, I had sign up for Biology, Nursing and not sure what to major in at the time. I did take some chemistry classes with Dr. Davis and I was just a simple girl but/and he inspired me to continue in this field. Challenging me to think critically, encouraging me to pursue my passions, and providing me with the tools I need to succeed. I received a Chemistry degree in '96. He became a mentor personal, academic, and professional for the youth and I am forever grateful.
He leaves his passion for education that will be pass down for generations to come. Prayers!
Tauna Wiltz
June 10, 2022
As a former student of Dr. Davis, I will always remember how he inspired me to be the best version of myself and nothing less! His lifetime accomplishments were beyond measure. Yet, the impact he had on his students was so profound that his name will live in our hearts forever. Thank you for sharing this beautiful soul with all of us. Forever grateful
Sara Zorola Hall
April 27, 2022
Dr. Davis was my chemistry professor for multiple classes. He inspired me very much in science. I would love to hear his stories of what he had accomplished in his life. He will be missed. He was a very humble man.
Karen Smith
April 14, 2022
Sending you sooo much love and peace at this time.
Marisol Vargas (Schertz Bank & Trust)
April 14, 2022
We are sorry to hear of Mr. Davis passing. It was a joy and honor to serve him at Schertz Bank & Trust.
We the Kirby tellers will miss him and his smile dearly. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely, The Schertz Bank & Trust Tellers.
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