Cheers to you Sid
One of the very few memories I actually have saved to my phone ❤️

I often find myself thinking of Sid. What a lovely guy. 
Stephanie

Thank you Angela & Sid for driving to Gainesville. My sons Lance & Jason were so happy to get to meet you both. Sid was a lifelong friend to my husband Lance Walters. Sid was the photographer at our wedding.

So very sorry to hear of Sid's passing.  Sid was a special and unforgettable co-worker.  He was one of the unofficial greeters of all new staff within the Tampa VA for many years.  I met Sid in 1991.  Our paths crossed continuously through the years working on many projects from AIBs, to the creation of the Family Care Consultation Team (FCCT).   He could always bring a smile into any situation.  He will be missed.  Thoughts and prayers are being sent to his family and all who knew him. 

Reading Sid’s obituary and reading all the messages and stories from friends and family is a warm reminder of how lucky we were to have Sid as a colleague at the VA. He was a gifted clinician and teacher and so supportive of our Dietetic Internship and many other programs and projects. He made the VA a better place. 
My condolences to Angie and the family. 

The last time I saw Sid was August 2015. Recently retired, my husband and I were very much enjoying 2 weeks in Ireland. While in Dublin visiting Trinity College and The Book of Kells, I spotted what a thought was a familiar face ( couldn’t be, we were in a foreign country!) 
Sure enough I saw Sid, he saw me and we ran down a very long hallway to give each other a big American hug . Sid and Angie had traveled to Ireland to see Van Morrison’s 70th Bday concert in his home town of Belfast. What a wonderful  memory of this great guy. 

As they say in Ireland 🇮🇪:
“The best things in life are the people we love 💗 the places we’ve been and the memories we have made along the way. 
They also say “ May you be at the gates of Heaven and hour before the devil knows you’re dead. 🍀


Sid was one of the most thoughtful, caring and giving people I have ever met.

When he asked “how are you?”, he really wanted to know. When he offered to help (which he did often), he meant it and he did it gladly. Sid was attuned to others’ struggles and interested in their well-being no matter who they were – family and friends, of course, but also patients, people he worked with, and complete strangers. He was generous with his time and with his heart.

Sid loved being with others – his and Angela’s family, his friends, his colleagues, coworkers and trainees. You could tell by his smile and his laughter which brightened the room. He made everyone feel welcome and treated everyone as important. When you spoke with Sid, you knew that he was listening intently and giving you his full attention. He could and would approach strangers and immediately make them feel at ease with his easy-going manner and his uncanny ability to quickly make a connection by finding something in common to talk about. 

Sid cared deeply about people, animals, the environment, and issues affecting his community, our nation and the world. He demonstrated this by nurturing his relationships, caring for animals whether they were pets or wild, and speaking out when he saw injustice, unfairness or solutions to problems. Whatever he did, he did whole-heartedly.

Sid was probably the most genuine person I have ever known. You could count on what he said and know that his actions came from his heart. 


I met Sid initially through Ron, my husband, as they worked together in the VA. Those intern parties from several decades ago were always a bit intimidating for the outsider, non-psychologist spouse (and there were so many psychologists there…). 
And then, there was Sid with a big fat smile on his face, a warm comment, and a welcoming presence that never left you out in the cold. Thank you, Sid, for your kindness, your concern, your immense sense of humor, your interest in others, and your beautiful personality. Even if cumulatively, we did not see each other many times throughout time, your departure leaves a big hole, and I will remember you always with great love and fondness. 
To Angela and the rest of Sid’s family, my deepest condolences. 

Donde quiera que estés, descansa en paz, Sid. Aquí te recordamos muchos.

Prado Antolino


(Bernie, continued:) As I have the good fortune to be a member of a season ticket-holder group that provides me with seats 8 rows behind the Rockies dugout, it was heart warming to see Sid smile like a little boy at his first game to be sitting so close to his (our) team. I don’t remember which team won, I only recall seeing Sid’s beaming face. 

Over a few years, we made a point to visit Angela & Sid on trips to Florida, once even at a Dead & Company show. The last time I saw Sid was at a Yankee’s Spring Training game in early 2020, weeks before COVID restrictions. Despite knowing the challenges before him, he was the same Old Sid. Big smile. Engaging conversation. And a good bye that made you so look forward to the next time you would see him. Sadly, that was not to happen.  He will be greatly missed.



I came to know Sid through Angela. In 1988, my wife, Lorraine, and I, moved, with our one-year old daughter, Rebecca, to the street on which Angela’s family lived just outside of Peekskill, NY. Angela often babysat for us, which was a bit of a challenge as Rebecca was very precocious and challenging, and made it a habit to call her Angie Baby. Well, time passed. Angela went on to pursue her education and career, and my family and I moved to Denver in 1995. After years of not being in touch, we connected on Facebook, that wonderful social media site responsible for bringing so many people together and fostering absolutely no divisiveness.

As my wife and I both have family in Florida, some not far from Angela, we arranged to meet on an upcoming visit to the Sunshine State. Angela had mentioned that she was married to a wonderful man, and my wife and I were anxious to meet him. She wasn’t lying. Here before us was a tall, slender man flashing a disarming smile as he opened his wide arms to greet us. With great patience, he quietly suffered through our reminiscing of those wild  times on Buttonwood Avenue, and what we and our families had been doing over the past decades. Since I had often traveled to Missouri on business, I was able to involve him in conversations about the beauty of places with such exotic names as Cape Girardeau. Yes, I’ve actually been on the SEMO campus and, nearly every university & college in The Show Me State, which, by the way, celebrated its 200th Anniversary of Statehood on August 10.   

In addition to how close to our hearts we hold Missouri, and, of course, Angela, Sid & I shared a love of Baseball. After he generously allowed me to use his great seats for Yankee Spring Training games when visiting at that time of year, I was happy to be able to reciprocate when he and Angela visited Colorado a few years back. As luck would have it, they came on one of the rare occasions the Yankees were at Coors Field for an inter-league game. 

Our friendship after this just continued to grow, and we planned more and more motorcycle adventures. We rode from Tampa to Franklin, NC a few times and even involved my father in the process at least once (he rode down from Indiana to hang out with us). One memorable trip Sid and I stayed in the crappy Barber motel where we shared a room just inches off US-441 where semi-trucks would blast by in the middle of the night and shake our beds furiously. It was there that we came up with our motorcycle names for each other – he was dubbed O-Ring and I was labeled Torque. Names that we called each other for more than 15 years. I could go on and on about the endless stories of our exploits, but suffice it to say that Sid was one of my very best friends on the planet. My brother. My confidant. My partner in crime. So to Angela and his family – I extend my most heartfelt condolences. Sid’s presence cannot ever be filled, but I hope that his memory stays fresh in all of our minds and warm in our hearts forever. I know he will be my co-pilot forever. 

I met Sid in December 1999. He was my supervisor for a three month rotation at the Tampa VA Hospital. I was immediately struck by how down to earth he was. So genuine. So personable. So real. Actually, larger than life. Just such a presence. I learned so much from him as a doctoral student in training, and he fundamentally changed my thoughts about what it meant to be a psychotherapist. To this day I still talk about his influence on me to my own students in my counseling skills class that I have taught for 22 years. Shortly after I was no longer an intern on his rotation, Sid talked about wanting to buy a motorcycle (which he knew I had been riding for years at this point – hence the request). I rode with him in his convertible VW down to a dealership on the Gandy and helped him pick out his first scooter. He loved that Honda. We rode together as much as we could. In January 2002 we took our first trip from my house in Clermont, Florida to Key West. It was brutally cold when we left Clermont and we had to stop every 25-30 miles just to feel our hands and feet. Riding through the Keys, the wind seemed to blow us at a 90 degree angle sideways on all the bridges. But we didn’t care. We were on two wheels and that was all that mattered. During the two years I was accruing clinical hours at the Tampa VA,  I stayed at Sid’s house on North Drive so many times. He always made me too many Gin martinis each and every night – always in a silver shaker. He was adamant that a good martini had to be made in a silver shaker. So much so that he gifted my wife and I a silver shaker and a pair of fancy martini glasses for our wedding in 2003 (And I still make my martinis in this shaker every night --  thank you Sid!). Our friendship after this just continued to grow, and we planned more and more motorcycle adventures. We rode from Tampa to Franklin, NC a few times and even involved my father in the process at least once (he rode down from Indiana to hang out with us). 

Sid and I started at James A Haley Hospital approximately the same  time and were assigned to connected inpatient units. Our carpooling times, common work experiences and shared outside social activities provided many opportunities to share ourselves with one another.
 Sid was an easy person to be with due to his relaxed personal nature and style. I feel fortunate to have my many memories of and with him and hopefully one day we will be together again.

We shared so many things in our friendship over the last 30+ years Sid. Early morning coffee at the VA, sometimes with complaints but always with humor and laughter. Our birthdays, only a day apart, and your Missouri warble when singing Happy Birthday to me each year. Our mutual interest in Florida history and wildlife, not to mention the environment. Our kayaking stories, though yours were always more adventurous and scary than mine. Our discussions of western trips and the exploration of Native American ruins. Our dreams of future travels. And, of course, our Harleys. Through all of it your humor and warmth, devotion to friends and family, love of adventure, and just plain “goodness” lit my way. 

A wise person once said, “He who looks only sees. He who does truly lives”. And you Sid, lived.

You often joked about following me. You "followed" me to Ohio and the Chillicothe VA. Then you "followed" me to Florida. But now you are the pathfinder Sid, and it will be me following you. 

I miss you a lot buddy. 

Ride on! 


My memories of Sid would be described much as has been described because it was that smile & His way of expressing concern & help. He was part of Code Orange team origins. And what a perfect professional to put there. He was walking Midwest hospitality & professionalism. Sorry & Condolences to His family & His VA family too. GREAT loss. Rick Tarr

Dear Angela and family, 
I can still hear Sid’s laugh and  I think of the great memories we had in team meetings that included Gene, Karen and Beth. Just when I thought he wasn’t listening while he doodled, he would add something profound to the discussion. He was a mentor and friend. He was passionate about helping Veterans and colleagues. He also was so proud of his kids. He’s left us too soon but better people for having known him. May good memories sustain you during these tough times. Take care, Connie 

My condolences to Angela and family. Sid was my very close friend. I was fortunate to have worked with him in the VA PMDB program. His insight into others, both patient and staff, was exemplary. In retirement, we enjoyed riding motorcycles and time just "hanging out" sharing tales of our adventures. No one can have a better friend than Sid.

I don't know what to say about Sid, because there were so many, many good things about him that I know I can't convey the hole his passing has left. I had the pleasure of working with him and learning from him for almost 20 years at the VA. I can honestly say that when he retired I missed his presence terribly; in fact, I couldn't imagine what work would be like without his cheerful demeanor, self-deprecating sense of humor, and his encouragement at times when I needed some supportive bolstering. Now I will miss his voice, which even when he felt very ill, always answered me with a welcoming tone when I called. I hate that you are gone, Sid, but hope you are in an awesome place now. Rest in peace, my buddy.  My heartfelt sympathy goes to Angela and (their) family members. 

Sid and Angela, new friends when we moved here 10 years ago. Friendship went deep quickly, although plenty of silliness too. We talked about aging and working and not working. About meaning in our lives and about ducks and cats and birds and gators. I hadn’t truly been deep in the Glades or the Big Cypress Swamp since college — Sid crossed the Glades by kayak several times, even as an old guy. And he made kayaks. And guitars. Had patience and precision. He and Angela, both psychologists, thankfully never analyzed Lisa or me, at least within hearing. But they knew people all the way through, and loved most of us anyway. 

Sid and I talked several times about what he was facing. He didn’t feel sorry for himself, but he did say a couple of weeks ago he missed being able to look forward to things. 

His concern, as his energy rallied and faded, was always for Angela.  Leaving her with so much to handle. He knew she could, but life requires four hands mostly.  I worry, he said. 

He wasn’t afraid of what’s next, nor sure what that is, if anything. But he wasn’t ready. More things to do. Evenings on the porch with Angela, boats on the ocean with Angela. Motorcycle trips, kayak trips, ballgames. Friends. Family. Turtles. 

Such a dear giving man. His voice rising, his face shining, his greeting. 

Sid. My friend. Vaya con Dios. 



When I think of Sid, his infectious joy, and continual smile are impressed upon my mind. Without fail, he was always spirited and enthusiastic in his endeavors to help, and to show care and kindness. My prayer, is that he is in the bosom of the King of Kings, and resting in the love that comes from grace alone...

Sid was a good friend of my husband, Eddy.  They attended WCU together.  As the years went by, Sid and Eddy got into the habit of calling each other on their individual birthdays because visits became few and far between.  Eddy died in October of 2017, after a long illness and thoughtful Sid called me on Eddy’s next birthday.  So, we kept the tradition going.  I got no answer when I called Sid on his birthday last month.  I finally heard from him in a short text, and I could tell he was struggling.  

I will truly miss our brief chats twice a year, about our kids, grandchildren, life.  I so wish I had met his beloved Angela.  

Rest easy, you sweet, kind, good man.  I hope you and Eddy are just hanging out.

Lynn Killette 
Belmont, NC

Sid and Angela were my neighbors on North Drive.
I really miss you both.
Rest In Peace Dr. Davis

I met Sid when I began my internship at James Haley. During the decades that followed, he was my supervisor, my colleague, and my friend. 

In August, 1997, Sid set my course for the professional I would become, and I will be forever grateful. I smile every time I remember his early words of advice to me, a young, terrified, people-pleasing intern: “Stop trying so hard to become another Dr. Davis. Work on becoming the best ‘Dr. Jenkins’ that you can be.” Sage words.

Thank you, Sid, for including me in the long list of lives that you touched during yours.


Dr. Davis was a pleasure to work with at Team Tampa.  I am grateful and honored to have worked with such a compassionate 
and dedicated professional.  He was always kind and authentically available to Veterans and Staff despite his overbooked schedule.  
Rest In Peace Dr. Davis. 🙏🙏🙏
 


Such fond memories of Sid working together at James Haley.  Always kind, always thoughtful and considerate of others, and what a passion for teaching those he worked with.  I learned so much from him when I started as an intern and over the years as our paths crossed many times.  Prayers for peace to his family and friends.

Sid was a treasured colleague who always connected in such a warm way—his big smile and  calming influence were legendary.   Sid’s down to earth, “Missouri” homespun style of communicating eased tensions and made collaborations easy.  He was a beloved co-worker, kind man, and dear friend to many at the Tampa VA.   His goodness will always be remembered..  My heart goes out to his family.     

I grew up with Sid in Malden, MO and went to school with him at Southeast Missouri State U. Although the orbits or our lives rarely intersected, we did reconnect a few years ago via social media. During our last chat, we shared a laugh about the time we were both hauled off by Officer Obie to the city jail in Malden for drinking in public. 
Condolences to his family and to the many friends he made along life's journey. There is a whole in the world tonight with his passing. Let our collective memories of him keep there from being a whole in the world tomorrow. 
Safe journey, John Sidney Davis!


Enjoyed every minute we worked together.  We had lots of stories being on the Code Orange team.  A sincere, loving man.  RIP my good friend

I treasure my memories of Sid, always so kind, bright, and thoughtful. He was a joy to spend time with. Sid’s laughter and distinctive laid back style brightened everyone’s day. Sid was authentically himself and brought out the best in patients and staff. Everyone was Sid’s friend. I will miss him greatly. 


Angela, I am so very sorry to know of the passing of your dear husband. May he rest in everlasting peace, having lived such a blessed life to be so loved and revered by so many. Please take good care of yourself in this time of loss.  xo

It was my pleasure to know Sid and work with him at Tampa VA for so many years.  He was one of the kindest human beings I have ever met.   My deepest condolences to his beautiful family.

Sid  was that very special person who could put a smile on your face the minute you saw him in the hallway at Haley  VA.    Thank you  for the memories Sid.  My deepest condolences to Angela and the entire Davis Family.

He was one of the BEST and most BELOVED colleagues and friend throughout the many years @ the VA.  Always a patient advocate, sincere and trusted by so many, I was privileged to work side by side with him and his team and gain from his personal style and expertise.  Go rest high upon that mountain💔🎶 
My deepest condolences to Angela and family/friends.

To Angela and family,
    I'm so very sorry for your loss.  It was an privilege and honor to have worked with and to have known Sid during my VA employment.  His  wonderful smile, caring and compassionate soul brought such positive energy to each room.  He loved you and  his  family deeply.  He will be missed.
  Helen Taylor

When I think of Sid, I smile, he was such a treasure to all his James Haley VA colleagues and patients. Always  with a smile, and always just a beep or call away who never hesitated to help a veteran who just needed to talk or in crisis. I am so sorry for your loss Angela, he was indeed one in a million! 

Brigid

Goodby to one of our friends from around the park in Malden Missouri
Johnny Davis

It was my pleasure to work with Sid at the James A. Haley
VA Hospital in Tampa. He will be remembered as a very kind and supportive co-worker. May he rest in peace. Condolences to the family.
Joy Chambers, Former VA Dietitian


OBITUARY

John "Sid" Sidney Davis Jr.

July 19, 1950 – August 14, 2021

Blount & Curry Funeral Home-Carrollwood

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