John Robert Davis

He was born in Springfield Ohio, the only child of Robert (Bob) Davis, Sr and Dorothy J (Pennington) Davis. He is survived by his wife LaVerne (Lincoln) Davis of 43 years of marriage, his stepson EJ VanLandingham, Lenabelle and two granddaughters, Emily and Lacey also of Bradenton. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Ray Lincoln and extended family of cousins.

He had grown up in Florida since 1954 and attended and graduated from Manatee High School in 1966. He worked with his father at the Union 76 station and then after that, opened up his own business The Car Shop. He had many talents, and jobs before and during that time. He came to Christ at an early age and was baptized and was an active member of attended First Baptist Church of Palmetto.

John was a Jack of all trades and could fix anything. He was a Master of Cosmetology, played drums for jazz band, marching band, played at the Manatee players and gigs at the Village Barn. Race cars was his true passion then. He built and raced cars with his Dad. With Hog Wild being one of his favorites. restored a 39 Pontiac in our garage that took years to finish but was in mint condition when it was finished.

He became a Major of the Manatee County Sheriffs Mounted Posse. Enjoyed the time organizing the posse and riding our horses.

In 1995 he was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. Doctors advised that he had just one year to live, and we were to get our affairs in order. So, what did they know? Almost thirty years later, that wonderful man was still alive. True he had his ups and downs with treatments and seizures, learning how to walk and talk all over again a couple times, but it did not get him down. His faith in God gave him hope and a positive attitude for anyone that came in contact with him. In 2014 he was struck with a Brain-stem stroke. Normally, one does not live thru this or if they did, they are severely handicapped. He was paralyzed on his right side and unable to work and fix his cars to provide for his family. But again and still, he continued to keep smiling, encouraging other people putting them ahead of himself and became the most avid Prayer Warrior I have seen. Anytime, anyplace with anybody, he would either pray for them or with them. Never missing a chance to do so.

Feeling he couldn’t do all the things he used to do, he turned to being the best he could be considering his condition and listening to the Lord about spreading the word of God. He was on a mission to give out JESUS CALLING daily devotional books. In the many trips to hospitals and rehab facilities, not one worker was missed and not asked. We even had to buy some in Spanish texts, as not to leave anyone out. He loved handing out bulletins at church and greeting everyone as they came in, with his warm heart and easy smile.

So, as our Pastor Hamm would ask ”what do we do with this?” Well, we say, Farewell John. You were a true servant of God. You fought a good fight. You will be extremely missed by friends and family. With moments of sorrow, we realize he is no longer in enduring pain and challenges but instead John is WALKING THE STREETS OF GOLD.

To honor John’s memory, there will be a Celebration of life on March 2nd from 12:00 to 2:00 pm. Friends and family are invited to attend and remember his wonderful life. The address is 2012 57th St E Bradenton, FL 34208. Casual attire of bright, happy colors.