Mr George H. Davidson

12 Dec 1915-16 Oct 2014

Born in Jeanerette, Louisiana on 12 December 1915, the youngest of ten children of Marie DeRouen Davidson and Wilkes Monroe Davidson. Having resided in Orange Park, Florida, since 1961, in the home built at 2710 Holly Point Road West, on Doctor's Lake, George was a long-time active parishioner of St. Catherine's Parish. George retired after 24 years of distinguished and decorated Naval service; having enlisted in 1935, advancing to Aviation Pilot 1C when commissioned to Ensign in 1943, and retiring in 1959 as Lieutenant Commander. As a naval aviator, George served in World War lI on search and rescue missions in the Pacific Theater and then on a wide variety of overseas and stateside assignments. After retiring from the U.S. Navy in 1959, he was associated with Reynolds, Smith & Hills Engineering Firm as Purchasing Agent, until 1971. From

1971 until April 2010 George enjoyed world travels with his beloved wife and "co-pilot" and experienced travel to 6 continents by land, sea, and air. He appreciated a variety of historical sites and cultures which were often photographed and became cherished memories to share with family and friends. Hobbies of fishing, gardening, and golf also were enjoyed through the years. The pleasure of entertaining family and friends was always greatly enjoyed. "laissez les bon temps roulez".

As a loving husband, loyal friend, devout Catholic, dedicated naval aviator, and a true soft-spoken Southern Gentleman of the "Greatest Generation" (with a twinkle in his eye), his sense of humor and his strength of character and uncompromising ethics always guided his personal and professional life. He loved life, country, church, and family, and leaves a legacy of faith and love to all who knew him. George is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Barbara Faulkner Davidson, numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and brothers-in-law Harry Faulkner and Chuck Tyrrell. The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation for the compassionate services rendered by Interim Caregivers: Ann and Dorothy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Catherine's Catholic Church, Orange Park, Florida, on Tuesday, October 28 at 11:00 a.m., with Father Edward Rooney as celebrant. Visitation will be held at HARDAGE-GIDDENS RIVERMEAD FUNERAL HOME, 127 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, Florida, (www.hardage-giddensrivermead.com) on Monday, October 27 from 6:00-8:00 PM, with a Vigil Service held by Father Rooney at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, or the American Heart Association