David John "Dave" Davis

David John "Dave" Davis obituary

David Davis Obituary

David John (Dave) Davis was born January 13, 1933 in Peckville, Pennsylvania to Thomas Davis, a coal miner, and his wife, Madaline Stewart Davis. Raised during the Great Depression, Dave and his two brothers, Stewart "Buddy" and Floyd often made or improvised their own toys, and all three sons worked at an early age to contribute to the family's income. Dave's maternal grandparents were Charles and Lena Stewart. Dave's paternal grandparents, David John Davies (the "e" was dropped at Ellis Island) and Mary Morgan Davies came to America in 1898, emigrating from Mountain Ash, Wales. Upon graduating from high school at age 17 and with the signed consent of his parents in hand, Dave joined the U.S. Air Force and served as a pilot in the Korean Conflict. After being honorably discharged, Dave chose to pursue a medical career per the suggestion of his brother Dr. Floyd Davis. He studied at Rhodes College and earned his undergraduate degree from Memphis State University. Dave earned his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He completed further training in general surgery at the University of Mississippi. And finally, he completed cardiovascular surgical training in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1971, Dave was lured into private practice in Baton Rouge, Louisiana after dining at The Village restaurant. An epicurean by nature, he declared The Village to be the best Italian restaurant ever. Dave joined the medical practice of Dr. Page Acree, which ultimately grew into the CVT Surgical Center providing state of the art surgical care to patients with diseases of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. He was privileged to practice with this outstanding group of physicians until his retirement in 1992. While planning his retirement, he served under Governor Edwin Edwards as chair of the transition team of the State of Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. In 2001, Dave married his wife, Brenda McKenzie Davis. He and Brenda loved to travel, and they particularly enjoyed escaping Louisiana's summer heat by visiting places such as Idaho, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, North Carolina, and their favorite, Montreal. Brenda frequently referred to Dave as a "social butterfly," because he so enjoyed spending many treasured hours visiting with friends and family. Over the course of his life, those who befriended, loved and honored Dave bestowed upon him a number of nicknames: As a schoolboy, he was known as "Hawker," as a soldier in Korea, he was "Duck." "Hawkeye" was his moniker as a surgery resident, and medical practice partners named him "Deacon." His grandchildren called him Poppy Doc, but most people knew him as "Doc." Making mischief and pulling pranks, even when times were most serious, was another hallmark of his. Dave also became an author in 2015, writing his inspirational memoir, Serendipity. When reflecting on his full and gratifying life, Dave would frequently exclaim, "It's been a great ride!" Dave's life took many detours that brought fulfillment, and he never regretted moving on from one life experience to the next great adventure. Dave passed comfortably at home on September 7, 2017 surrounded by family and friends. A celebration of Dave's life will be hosted at Bistro Bryonz, 5412 Government Street, on Saturday, September 16, from 3:00-5:00. Dave was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Stewart Davis; and his young son, Robert Thomas Davis. Dave is survived by his wife, Brenda; daughter, Karyn Davis Smith (Jim Arthur); son, David John Davis Jr (Paige Robinson); stepchildren, Carla Kaiser and Katie Kaiser Daniels (Paul); grandchildren, David Andrew Smith, Hayley Smith Brandenburg, Sydney Davis Oakes, Hannah Madaline Smith, Robert Thomas Davis, Barrett Hamilton Smith, Sophie Belle Davis and great-grandchild Wyatt Mahler Smith; step-grandchildren, Raleigh Daniels and Stevie Daniels. Dave is also survived by his brother, Floyd Davis. To anyone who wishes to make a donation in Dave's memory, the family suggests donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142 or the charity of your choice.

Published by The Advocate from Sep. 9 to Sep. 16, 2017.
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Memories and Condolences
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John you and the family are in my thoughts and prayers; praying that The Holy Spirit will bring you all the comfort you need during this season of your lives. he was the best!

Seneca Snell Jones

September 17, 2017

So sorry to hear of the passing of one of my favorite people that I've ever been privileged to call my friend. Dave and I shared many great times and I will hold him dear in my heart until we meet again.

Jim Rogers

September 16, 2017

DJ - so sorry to read about your Dad's passing. Thoughts and prayers with you and your family. John Fritchie (Asheville, NC)

September 14, 2017

TO THE FAMILY;

My sincere condolences,GOD is a god of
comfort and may he give you comfort and strength in such a difficult time.
MATTHEW 5:4.

C.J.~Illinois

September 12, 2017

(Unk)el Dave was the first to welcome me to Baton Rouge with a huge hug, a matching smile, a great meal, some drinks, and lots of laughs. The knowledge and stories he shared that night will never be forgotten! An amazing man that led an amazing life.

Brandon Davis

September 12, 2017

Dave was a dear friend to his friend TJ Moran and myself there was not a kinder sweeter man than Dave He was a funny personality would do anything for you He would come pick up TJ and take him to get scans He was loved and will be greatly missed His love Brenda God bless her is a saint. My love love to her and all his family. He was a sweetheart. We loved him and will miss him

Judy Byers

September 10, 2017

Proverbs 10:7a The memory of the just is blessed:
In memory of the world's greatest Uncle. He had a loving & caring heart for family, friends and his patients.

Tom Davis

September 10, 2017

I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Davis's passing. I worked with him in 1975 in SICU at the BRGH when I graduated from nursing school. I took care of his Open Heart patients when he was with Dr. Acree and Dr. Berry. What a great group of physicians!!! I learned so much from all of them as a young nurse. It was truly and honor to work with this cardiovascular group. It formed the rest of my nursing career. Dr. Davis, may you rest in peace. May the choirs of angels come to greet you. May they speed you to paradise. May the Lord enfold you in his mercy. May you find eternal life. My special condolences to the family.

Jan Breaux Samson R.N.

September 9, 2017

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Funeral services provided by:

Rabenhorst Funeral Home & Crematory - Downtown

825 Government Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

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