John Legrand Davis

On March 19, 2026, John Legrand Davis stepped into glory at the age of 80. We were blessed with 26 extra years with him after he defeated stage 4 cancer twice. He lived well and fought hard and now he can rest in the gentle arms of his beloved Jesus.

He was a loving husband of 52 years, father, brother, and grandfather. He was a farmer and even after he retired was happiest on the lawn mower taking care of his yard. He had talents in gardening as well, especially with roses and blueberries.

He was known by most as a gentle giant. He was a man of few words unless you got him talking about something he really loved. He had a wry sense of humor with well timed zingers. He didn't talk about his faith much but his actions spoke volumes that he was a very faith-filled man. He was a dedicated member of his men’s bible study group. He was a generous man who helped people out any way he could. He had a love for animals and a special way with them, always bringing home strays to add to the menagerie.

He will be missed but he leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, courage, faith, generosity, a hard work ethic, and wonderful memories for us to hold on to.

He is survived by his wife Judy, daughter Robin Buck with husband David, daughter Rebecca Davis, daughter Raven Chitalo, Joshua Chitalo, grandchildren Temwa and Mwata Chitalo, brother Sam Davis and Judy Cullipher.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Gretchen Davis and parents Charles and Minerva Davis.

Memorial services will be on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Cotten Funeral home, located at 2201 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, NC 28560. Visitation begins at at 2:00PM, followed by the Memorial at 3:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to The Filling Station in Pollocksville or your local animal shelter.