Payson Nicholas Davis

With profound sadness and broken hearts, we announce the sudden passing of our beloved son, Payson Nicholas Davis, on Monday, August 10, 2026.

Payson was the cherished son of Nick and Jacque Davis and the deeply loved brother of Shea and Grady. Though his time with us was far too short, the impact he made on his family, friends, teachers, coaches, and community will live on forever.

Payson was a boy with a curious mind, a joyful spirit, and a heart full of love. He loved learning, gaining knowledge, asking questions, and discovering new things. He approached life with wonder and enthusiasm, always finding ways to brighten the lives of those around him.

Payson was diagnosed with Schaaf-Yang Syndrome, a rare genetic condition, and was the 111th person in the world to be diagnosed with the syndrome. While he faced challenges throughout his life, those challenges never defined him. Instead, Payson inspired others through his resilience, determination, and ability to bring people together. Through his journey, he taught countless people the true meaning of patience, kindness, acceptance, and unconditional love.

Above all else, Payson loved his family. Some of his happiest moments were spent camping, exploring new places, traveling, and making memories with those he loved most.

Payson proudly participated in Journey League Basketball and TOPs Soccer, where he experienced friendship, teamwork, and encouragement. He was deeply rooted in the Beavercreek community, attending Beavercreek Preschool, Valley Elementary School, and Ankeney Middle School. Throughout his life, he was embraced by extraordinary teachers, aides, coaches, classmates, and friends who surrounded him with unwavering support and love while helping him navigate the unique challenges associated with Schaaf-Yang Syndrome.

Anyone who knew Payson knew he was always up to something. He loved camping, chewing gum, coffee, Skyline Chili, the ocean and finding ways to make people smile. His sense of humor, playful nature, and larger-than-life personality left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He had a remarkable way of bringing people together and reminding us all of what truly matters.

Payson is survived by his loving parents, Nick and Jacque Davis; his sister, Shea; and his brother, Grady. He is also survived by his devoted grandparents, Vicki Bernhardt, Greg and Gail Davis, Harvey Bernhardt, and Vicki Ann Duraine; his aunts and uncles, Sami and Ed Pralle, Evan and Steph Davis, Josh and Stef Tarter, and Max and Sydney Kavish; along with numerous cousins, extended family members, friends and loved ones who adored him.

The love surrounding Payson was extraordinary. He was blessed to be part of a community that embraced him wholeheartedly. His teachers, coaches, teammates, friends, neighbors, and family members helped create a life filled with joy, opportunity, acceptance, and belonging. He made a lasting impact on all those he met, and his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched.

While our hearts are shattered by this unimaginable loss, we are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, prayers, kindness, and support from friends, family, and the Beavercreek

community. The compassion shown to our family serves as a testament to the incredible life Payson lived and the profound impact he had on so many people.

Payson taught us that every life has purpose, every person has value, and love is life's greatest gift. We will forever cherish his smile, his laughter, his courage, and the countless memories he gave us.

The Davis family extends our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has loved, supported, encouraged, and prayed for Payson throughout his life and for the support being shown to our family during this difficult time. Please know how deeply we appreciate each and every one of you.

Though we will miss him every day, Payson's light will continue to shine through the lives he touched and the love he leaves behind.

Forever in our hearts. Forever our son. Forever loved.

Payson Nicholas Davis

Beloved Son • Loving Brother • Cherished Grandson • Precious Friend

"Sometimes the smallest footprints leave the biggest marks on our hearts." ❤️

Visitation for Payson will be Friday, August 14, 2026, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, followed by a funeral service at 6:00pm at Be Hope Church in Beavercreek. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Journey League Basketball, Dayton Chapter.