Kenneth Joe Davis, born on May 31, 1940, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2024, in Tampa, Florida, at the age of 84.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his father, Travis Davis; his mother, Lela Marion (Simpson) Davis; his sister, Mary "Corrinne" Lambert; his brother, John Travis Davis; his sister, Pearl "Irene" Pena; Baby Boy Davis; and his stepson, Andrew Butler.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Anastasia "Joyce" (Long) Davis, and his cherished children: Kenneth Davis II (Sherry), Sandra Nitch (Michael), Lela Simonson (Jim), Ralph "Nathan" Butler (Sheila), and Donald Butler (Angela). Kenneth was also the proud grandfather of Ryan Bebbington (Heather), Brittany Frustaci (Michael), Travis Davis, and Sam Butler, Sheryl Ramos and the great-grandfather of Mason Bebbington, Weston Bebbington, Sadie Bebbington, Scarlett Bebbington and Mia Ramos. He will be dearly missed by many friends and loved ones.
Kenneth was a graduate of East Bay High School, Class of 1958-59, where he was an All-Conference Football and Track Team member. During his time there, he designed the first EB letter in his art class that was used as the school logo for many years, which featured a gray letter with a red backing. And, he developed a deep love for Mechanical Drawing. Kenneth also enjoyed leading Boy Scouts, where he mentored many boys, helping them develop life skills and guiding several to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.
A heart transplant recipient of 27 years, Kenneth was immensely grateful to the organ donor and her family for giving him the gift of extended life. He found joy in hiking with his best friend Bill Edinger, backpacking, appreciating nature, spending time with family, and embracing the simpler things in life.
Kenneth worked as a shipfitter and supervisor in the shipyard at Gulf Tampa Drydock and International Ship Repair, where he played a key role in both the maintenance of vessels and the cleanup efforts following the Blackthorn disaster. He was also a skilled carpenter who enjoyed building and designing structures, completing his first blueprint for a home by the time he graduated from high school. His sharp mind and deep faith remained with him until his last breath and into his first in Glory. He was always grateful to God for guiding him throughout his life. Kenneth was a great man, a faithful servant, and a devoted husband, father, brother, friend, and mentor to many.
As a father and grandfather Kenneth was devoted to his children. He took time to teach them about the stars and the beauty of nature, how to navigate the forest, and how to live off the land. He comforted them during nightmares, imparted valuable life lessons, and instilled in them a love for God and a desire to live a good and happy life. He encouraged them not to follow the crowd but to pursue a life that would bring joy to themselves and others.
A celebration of Kenneth's life will be held on August 31st at Hogan's Place, located at 7023 Gibsonton Drive, Gibsonton, FL 33534. The service will begin at 11 a.m., with refreshments to follow. Casual attire is requested for this outdoor event.
Kenneth will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. "Let your ripple be a positive one!"
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Kenneth's memory are encouraged to make a donation to their favorite charity, educational program, or children's ministry.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
2 Timothy 4:7 ESV
Previous Events
Celebration of Life Service
31
Aug
7023 Gibsonton Drive
Gibsonton, FL 33534
