Gilbert “Gil” Davis, age 90, of Springdale, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025, at the home of his granddaughter, Lisa Cook, and her husband, Khalvin.
He was born on June 5, 1935, in Athens, Alabama, to Lorene B. Haggenmaker and Robert Smith Davis.
In 1953, Gil proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving until 1956 and earning the distinction of being a Korea War veteran. He later worked as a diesel mechanic and skilled woodworker, and was a dedicated union organizer at UPS, where he served for decades.
On October 27, 1956, in San Luis Ray, California, Gil married the love of his life, Elizabeth Ann (Caine) Davis, and together they built a life centered on family, faith, and hard work.
Gil’s talents extended far beyond his career. He was a passionate outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, woodworking, and working on cars. Over the years, he built many homes and created countless handcrafted pieces. His greatest joy, however, was his family—he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Gil often said he attended every one of his children’s graduations, and his devotion to his family was evident in both his words and his actions.
He is survived by his children, Glen Davis, Cynthia “Cindy” Davis, and Randall “Randy” Davis and wife Debra Davis; six grandchildren, Isaac, Rebekah, Emma, Hadley, Everly, and Bentley Hallow; and five great-grandchildren. He is also remembered fondly by dear friends Clint and Ethel Crotwell.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Davis, and great-granddaughter, Velocity Davis.
A celebration of Gil’s life will be held on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Friendship Baptist Church in Springdale, Arkansas. Military honors will be presented at Fort Smith National Cemetery at a later date.
Gil will be remembered for his deep love of family, his dedication to providing for those he loved, his craftsmanship, and his appreciation for the outdoors. His legacy will live on in the lives and hearts of those who knew him.