James Richard Davis, 65, of Galesburg, died peacefully Friday, July 26, 2024, at his home surrounded by family.
He was born July 1, 1959, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Donald Richard and Hazel Roselee “Rosie” (Overhulser) Davis. James was reared and educated in Galesburg, graduating from Bethany Baptist Christian Academy in 1978. He worked at Abingdon Pottery/Briggs Manufacturing, for about thirty years until they closed in 2001. James then was a truck driver for roughly fifteen years at Hartwig. James married Patricia L. Motz on August 9, 1980, in Galesburg.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 43 years, Patty Davis of Galesburg; two sons: James (Shayna) Davis, Jr. and Dustin (Hether) Davis, both of Galesburg; one daughter, Nacole (William III) Spencer of Galesburg; and seven grandchildren: Nolan, Marie, Jacob, Madison, Eddie, Aleah, and Lillian. Also surviving is one brother, Steve Davis of Kewanee; two sisters, Brenda (Chuck) Burbach of Waukesha, Wisconsin, and Christina “Hope” (John) Reynolds of Rio, Illinois; and his beloved dog, Della. He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Linda Orrender.
James was a longtime member of the Central Illinois A.B.A.T.E., the Elks Lodge #894, and Bethany Christian Church. Later in life he became an ordained minister to officiate his families’ weddings. Riding his motorcycle, working on and driving fast cars were a few of his many passions. He enjoyed working on home improvements, woodworking, tending to his goldfish pond, and fishing. James liked his guns and was a hobby shooter. He loved his kids and grandkids.
Cremation will be accorded. A memorial visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory in Galesburg. A celebration of life will be held from 5 p.m. til close Friday, August 9, 2024, at The Corral, 1685 Grand Ave. Galesburg, Illinois 61401. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
