Joe David Davis

Joe David Davis, 79, passed away on June 23, 2026. He was born on October 7, 1946, in Hobbs, New Mexico, to David H. Davis and Katherine L. (Smith) Davis. Joe was a larger-than-life personality who never met a stranger. His outgoing nature and genuine interest in others allowed him to make friends wherever he went. He graduated from Putnam City High School and attended Oklahoma State University for one year before being drafted into the United States Army. Joe proudly served his country during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged following his military service.

After returning home, Joe began his career as an apprentice with the Oklahoma City Pipefitters Local 344. Through hard work and dedication, he built a successful career in the trade. Eventually, Joe pursued his entrepreneurial spirit and opened C & J Sporting Goods, a business that has proudly served the community for more than 30 years. Joe had a lifelong passion for firearms and enjoyed buying, selling, and trading guns. He found peace and happiness outdoors where he loved hunting, fishing, and spending time on his beloved farm. He cherished sharing those experiences with his family and friends.

On August 14, 1982, Joe married the love of his life, Cindy. Together they made their home in Bethany and raised four children. Joe and Cindy shared a love of travel and enjoyed exploring the world together, visiting destinations such as Germany, Italy, and the Mediterranean. Among all their adventures, Joe often spoke fondly of a hunting trip to South Africa, which remained one of his favorite experiences.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, David H. and Katherine L. Davis; his grandson, Lucas Wheatly; and his sister-in-law, Susan A. Gratch.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Cindy Davis; his children, Shannon Davis-Lopez and wife Elizabeth Fraggetta, Jennifer Wheatly and husband Randy, Jason Davis and wife Sharay, and Sherri Hernandez and wife Heather; his grandchildren, Phillip Wheatly, Zack, Colby, Hadleigh Pruitt, Breann Jackson and husband Forrest, Jayda Davis, and great-granddaughter Carter Jackson; his brother, Donny Davis and wife Becky; his brother-in-law, Mike Gratch and sister Lucille; his nieces and nephews, Dusty, Brandy, Autumn, and Luci with her love Greg Nicholson; his "Chosen Ones," Damon Birdfield and Robin Ramaghi and her children, Rylan and Radley; as well as a host of extended family and friends.

Joe will be remembered for his warm heart, quick smile, and generous spirit, and the countless friendships he formed throughout his life. His legacy lives through the family he cherished, the friends he welcomed, and the many lives he touched.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Bill Merritt Funeral Service. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Bill Merritt Funeral Service, with burial to follow at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery.