Richard Elwood “Dick” Davis passed away peacefully in Gainesville, Florida on the morning of August 25th, 2015.
He was born on January 15th, 1930 in Bluefield, West Virginia, to Ara and Claude Davis. Dick played basketball at the University of Tennessee, where he joined ROTC and received commission as second Lieutenant. He served in the Korean War from 1953 until March of 1955, when he was discharged as captain.
After the war, Dick was the head basketball coach at Holston High School and King College before becoming the assistant basketball coach at the University of Florida in 1966. After eight years on staff at the university, he spent the next twenty-four years as a leasing manager at Hawes Chrysler. For the next fourteen years, he worked at The Swamp Restaurant.
His outgoing personality never ceased to make others smile, and he was beloved by his family and the community at large.
Dick joined the General James A. Van Fleet chapter 267 of the Korean War veterans association in 2004, where he was elected commander and led them to become the most active chapter in the state.
He is survived by his wife Patricia, his sister, Scarlett Swall, his daughter, April Pearson, and two grandchildren, Ben and Becki Pearson.
In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to: Van Fleet Chapter 267 of Korean War Veterans, 4701 NW 6th Street, Gainesville, FL 32609
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I was sadden to hear of Coach Davis’ passing. I will keep you and the family in my thoughts and prayers. May GOD comfort you in this time of sorrow. GOD bless you!
My deepest condolences to your family. Losing a loved one is never easy. As you continue in life keep the wonderful words found at Revelations 21:4 with you and hold dear the thought found in Isaiah 25:8. No, I can not bring your loved one back but I hope that the comfort in knowing that God not only wants to but will is encouraging in itself. – Acts 24:15. Again, I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Ashley
I wish you all my sincerest sympathy. Growing up just down the street, I always remember him as a very kind man. I was so proud to be able to re-connect in recent years through him attending and rendering honors for fallen veterans we served and also from the Gainesville Quarterback Club. I will miss him.
Dear Pat and April, I am saddened today to see that Dick had left this world. He was truly the best boss I ever had. Working for him at Gator Auto Leasing was a one-of-a-kind experience. I never knew what a day would bring. Through him I met Bear Bryant, and he taught me to have an extra special love for the Gators. I have often thought of you all and will always keep you in my heart. I am so sorry for your loss. Dick was a great man and very special to so many folks and his good deeds throughout the community were outstanding. My sincere condolences to you both and may God bless! Love, Audrey