Joseph Benjamin Davis, known to his many friends as Joe Davis, was born May 5, 1885 in Tennessee, the son of the late James Charles and Elizabeth Davis. He came to Missouri when he was a small boy. In 1912 he was married to Ruthie Jane Severn, who preceded him in death in 1931. In 1935 he was married to Lora Moore who survives him. He also leaves four daughters: Mrs. Guy Turnbo of Fenton, Mo.; Mrs. Jim Nowlin of Blytheville, Mrs. Clyan Larue of Steele; and Mrs. Don Thornton of South Bend, Ind.; three sons, Woodrow Davis and Harvel Davis of Steele, and Gerald Burke of Doniphan. A son, James Harmon Davis, preceded him in death in 1917 at the age of 2 1/2 years. He also leaves 24 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
Pall bearers were Quinton Still, Jerry Gibson, Eugene Kellems, Sr., Lester Cecil, Charles McClanahan, and Olan Johnson.
Funeral services were conducted from the German Funeral Home Chapel, Tuesday, May 13, 1969 at 3:30 p.m. with Rev. James F. McCrary officiating.
Burial was in Frakes Cemetery with German Funeral Home, Inc., in charge of the arrangements.
