William D. Davidson

Born on March 19, 1937, in Deport, Texas, Don was the son of William and Stella Davidson. He proudly served in the United States Army before beginning a 35-year career with the Lubbock Police Department, retiring as a Sergeant in 1998. While serving with the department, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Wayland Baptist University in 1976, balancing the demands of work, family, and higher education.

In 1966, Don married Belvely Johnson, and together they built a loving home, raised four children, and shared 50 years of love and happiness until her passing in 2016. He later married Willie Shoemate in 2017, and together they shared nine years of adventures, laughter, and love.

Don found joy in the simple things in life. He enjoyed camping with family, hiking, gardening, and loved his dogs. He treasured gathering around the table to play cards, dominoes, and Chicken Foot with family and friends. He was always ready to lend a hand and rarely met a project he wasn’t willing or able to tackle. He was a member of Ransom Canyon Fellowship Church.

Don will be remembered for never using profanity. Whenever frustration arose, he simply said, “Cotton picker!”—a trademark expression that earned him the affectionate nickname “Cotton Picker” among his fellow officers at the Lubbock Police Department.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Stella Davidson; his wife, Belvely Davidson; his grandson, Christopher Valladao; his sister, Betty Eikenberry; and his son, Doug Shoemate.

He is survived by his wife, Willie Davidson; his children, Teresa (Mark) Miller, Donnie (Aimee) Davidson, Doneise (Walt) Scott, Donna Kay (Kelly) Valladao, and Kristi (Chris) Shoemate Banyai; 15 grandchildren: John Mark, Paul James, Rebecca, and Rachel; Lindsey and Cal; Eden, Cassie, and Alex; Keldon and Casey; and Lou, Jack, Sam, and Bridd-Leigh; 14 great-grandchildren; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Jean and Bob Hill, Margaret and Larry Trantham, and Jimmie and Retha Snelson; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family will receive friends during visitation on Sunday, July 12, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 13, at 2:00 p.m. Both will take place at Resthaven Funeral Home.

Don lived life to the fullest, embracing each day with strength and determination until his final day. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7