Obituary of William R. Davis

William R. Davis William R. Davis, 82, died at 4:45 P.M. Saturday at his residence in Robin Hood Estates, surrounded by his family. He married Martha L. Adams on October 22, 1976, and she survives. Born in Lawrence County, he was the son of Earl and Mary Davis. Bill graduated from Needmore High School where he played basketball three years. Shortly after graduation from high school in 1945, he was drafted and sent to Camp Livingston, La., for basic training. After World War II ended that same year, Bill was among the first Army replacement troops sent to Japan. He was assigned to the 242nd Port Company in Yokohama, where he spent 13 months helping to unload ships that had been readied for an invasion of Japan. After his discharge in January in 1947, Bill returned to Lawrence County and to Crane. He worked in the ammo stock control office until beginning his career with Indiana Petroleum in the fall of 1947. He served as manager of that firm for 41 years until his retirement in 1989. He also served in the National Guard from 1945 to 1981, retiring as Lieutenant Colonel. Survivors include his wife Martha of Bedford; son William R. Davis of Bedford; stepson Jeff Adams and wife Michelle (Missy) of Bedford; grandson Andrew Davis and wife Melissa of Bloomington; step-granddaughters Abby and Allyson Adams of Bedford; step-grandson Brian Pace of Boston, Mass. He was preceded in death by his father and mother; sister Jean Snow; brothers: Charlie, Fred and George Davis; and stepdaughter Charlene Whittredge. He was a member of the Hillcrest Christian Church, Elks Club and the American Legion Gillen Post #33. Bill was a long-time fan of Indiana University Basketball and Indianapolis Colts Football. Funeral Information Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, October 14th from the Elmwood Chapel of Day & Carter Mortuary with Pastor Charlie Scott officiating. Burial will follow in Cresthaven Cemetery where military rites will be accorded at the grave by members of the American Legion Gillen Post #33. Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Tuesday, October 13th at Day & Carter Mortuary. Donations Information Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of choice in Bills honor.