J.L. Davis

J. L. Davis July 27, 1942 - March 12, 2012 J. L. Davis of Valley Mills passed away after a valiant seven year battle with cancer on Monday, March 12, 2012. Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday, March 16, at Western Heights Baptist Church with the Rev. Pat Cummings officiating. Burial will follow at Waco Memorial Mausoleum. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, March 15, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey. Jesse was born July 27, 1942 in Baird, Texas to Harlon and Nayta Davis, and lived in the Abilene area for many years. He married Patricia Simmons of Clyde, Texas on February 17, 1962. They moved to the Waco area in 1967. They were feted at an early 50th anniversary party at their home in late January of this year, where friend and family joined in the celebration. J.L. was employed over the years by General Dynamics, Moses A/C and Gulf States Paper prior to opening and operating his own businesses, Davis Landscaping Contractors and Texas Mowing Service for the past 35 years along with his wife, Pat. He was a caring giving man who spent his life helping anyone who was in need and could be counted on to be a man of his word. He was a man of faith and was a member of Patton Baptist Church. He also enjoyed a good time and in his younger years thought every night was a Saturday night and every day a Sunday. He was a joke teller of epic proportions until the day he died. He had a passion for collecting friends, old cars and guns. J.L. was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters and his daughter, Kim. He is survived by his beloved wife, Pat; two sisters, Joan Huddleston and Josie Fay Franklin, both of Clyde; a host of extended family members, faithful friends and his Jack Russell terrier, Tyler. Pallbearers are Don Meinecke, Jake Roberts, Les Turnbow, Larry Filer, Ken Young and Larry Wright. Special thanks to Dr. Browder and Missy for their loving care and to all the friends who have brought kindness and comfort to J.L. and Pat during this difficult time. Memorials may be made to Fuzzy Friends Rescue, Patton Baptist Church or your charity of choice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our "Memorial Guestbook" at www.WilkirsonHatchBailey.com. Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey