DAVIS, William (Bill) Franklin

William (Bill) Franklin Davis, age 85, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at Winthrop Manor Healthcare.

Bill was born in Knoxville, TN, on December 29, 1936, son of the late Van Wert Davis and the late Annabelle Brannon Davis. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Frances Shepherd Davis, sister Jeanne Davis Ford, sister Pollyanna Davis Trowbridge, son in law Mark Stephen Smith and grandson Christopher Adam Smith.

Bill was a graduate of Decatur (GA) High School and attended Emory University. He retired from the Floyd County Prison in 2002, where he served as food service supervisor. Prior to that in the 1970’s he owned the Lavabo Delicatessen followed by a long career in catering service in the Rome area. He was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Bill was a talented pianist and devoted family man. He is remembered for saying “family is important” and “remember who are.”

He is survived by daughters, Laura Ann Smith Moore (Tom), Ellen Davis Jackson (Craig), Mary Alice Davis Garrard (Scott); grandchildren, Sarah Marie Anderson, Catherine Elizabeth Smith, Erica Lindsey Anderson, Mia Ryder Garrard and William Auden Garrard; and several nieces and nephews. And his constant companion Coots, his loyal dachshund.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 7, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. at Daniel’s Funeral Home in Rome, GA. A private family graveside service will be held in Lafayette, GA.

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