Gary R. Davis

Gary Russel Davis passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025, at the age of 81 in Hannibal, MO at his home. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the James O'Donnell Funeral Home in Hannibal, MO. Rev. Michael Niffen will officiate. Burial will be at Bear Creek Cemetery in rural Hannibal, MO. Friends and Family are invited to Gary's Life Celebration at a visitation that will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Tuesday September 30, 2025, at the funeral home. Born on September 4, 1944, in Perry, MO, Gary was a man whose life was characterized by his kind spirit, infectious humor, and the joy he found in simple pleasures. Gary's journey began as the son of Leota Faye Hawn Davis, and he was lovingly raised by his adopted parents James Samuel Davis and Beulah Mae Davis. He was married to Jo Ann Bates on July 9, 1965, in Hannibal, MO. She preceded him in death on April 16, 2012. Though he was preceded in death by his birth mother and adopted parents; his sister's Katherine Davis and Faye Miller; and his stepbrothers Jessie Smith and Sonny Smith, Gary's legacy continues through his adoring family. He leaves behind a cherished circle of relatives, including his three children, Kathy Paparic (Darrel), Gary W. Davis (Pam), and Mary Ann Beckett (Scott), all of Hannibal, MO. His life was further enriched by his two stepbrothers, Elmer Smith (Becky) of Hannibal, MO, and James Davis (Angela) of New London, MO; sister-in-law, Judy Smith of Hannibal MO; one aunt, Doris Bollraeh; twelve grandchildren, David M. Brinkley, Christopher Brinkley, Michelle Begley, Brad Brinkley, Whitney Fessenden, Joshua Davis, Gary M. Davis, Amanda Clark, Brandi Beckett, Dalton Beckett, Amanda Wisdom and Timmy Wisdom; twenty-one great-grandchildren; special niece, Amanda Bowen (Doug); and other numerous nieces and nephews. Gary's work ethic was as strong as his character. He retired from Atlantic Buildings as a dedicated steelworker. His career also spanned positions at Bluff City Shoe Factory, L.M. Bross, and Black Thunder Boat Company. A true outdoorsman, Gary relished the time he spent hunting deer, rabbit, and squirrel. He was equally passionate about fishing, often found at the Bay or Mark Twain Lake, where he also enjoyed camping trips with his family. These activities brought him close to nature, a place where he found peace and contentment. Gary's love for entertainment was rooted in the classics. He had an affinity for old westerns, with a particular fondness for icons like John Wayne, and television shows such as Gunsmoke and Bonanza. The music and movies of Elvis Presley also brought him great joy, as he appreciated the charisma and talent of the legendary entertainer. Above all, Gary will be remembered for the warmth he brought into every room and the laughter he shared with friends and family during countless card games. His kind spirit touched many lives, and his funny anecdotes will continue to bring smiles to the faces of those who knew him. Gary attended the First Church of the Nazarene in Hannibal, MO. Pallbearers will be David Brinkley, Christopher Brinkley, Brad Brinkley, Dalton Beckett, Joshua Davis, Gary M. Davis, Timmy Wisdom, and Tim Fessenden. Memorial contributions may be made to DaVita Dialysis or to the American Kidney Foundation.