Deacon Claude Davis, Sr., at the age of 84, returned to his heavenly home on Saturday, September 30, 2023. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him throughout his life and ultimately gave him peace. The words of the song he loved to sing, “I can’t even walk without you holding my hand” is indeed a testament today, because he is forever in the hands of God Almighty for eternity where all his troubles are now over, Praise God!!!

Claude was born to the late Willie and Lucille Davis in Valdosta, Georgia on January 18, 1939. He received his primary and secondary education in the Lowndes County School System. As an adult, Claude moved to Huntington, New York. He worked for the town of Huntington for many years performing heavy mechanic duties. His work ethics, attention to detail, and excellent diagnostic and problem solving skills distinguished him as one of the best in his field.

Deacon Claude Davis accepted the salvation of Jesus Christ early in life. When he moved to New York, he became a faithful member of Evergreen Missionary Baptist Church. His faithfulness led to him being ordained as a Deacon. While at Evergreen, he also sung with the male chorus. Years later, he moved his membership to Wyandanch Missionary Baptist Church in Wyandanch, New York. He served on the Trustee Board and the Pastor’s Aid Ministry. Dea. Davis was also the lead singer for the gospel group “The Just Five.” Subsequently, Dea. Claude Davis relocated back to Valdosta, Georgia and joined Thomas Chapel Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Edgar Roberts. Thomas Chapel accepted Dea. Davis’s deaconship and he performed the duties of a Deacon through the tenure of Pastor Edgar Roberts and the current Pastor, Rev. Dr. Loyd Salary, Jr. until the Lord called Dea. Davis home from labor to rest.

Deacon Claude Davis, Sr. was an example of a man driven by his purpose and faith in God. He was a deeply spiritual man who shared God’s love with others. He would always challenge those around him to be the best version of themselves through Jesus Christ. Though at times he seemed to have had a tough exterior, his heart was of gold. He would never hesitate to help someone in need. Dea. Davis’s legacy will live on forever through the many stories he shared and the memories of those who had the opportunity to know him. He was an inspiration to all who knew him and was loved and admired by many. The impact of Dea. Claude Davis, Sr’s life will be felt for years to come. Can’t you hear him singing his songs, “Since The Lord Laid His Hands On me”, “Shame”, “Trouble In My Way”, and yes his favorite song, “I Can’t Even Walk Without You Holding My Hand” Hallelujah, Dea. Davis is home!!! He has fought the good fight, He has finished the race, He has kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

Deacon Davis is preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Lucille Davis, brothers, Samme Morris, Allen Dale “Joe” Palms, and his sister, Mary Lee Baldwin. He leaves to cherish his memories: his beloved wife, Vera M. Davis; daughters, Leticia Davis, Shekye Robinson; sons, Claude Davis, Jr. (Angela), Calvin Davis, Carl Davis, Clifton Davis, Marquis Robinson; step-daughters, Sharon Dianne Jones (Kelvin), Cheryl Littlejohn, Tanya Yvette Boston; step-sons, Patrick Mackey, Russell Jones (Alecia); sister, Willie Pearl Edwards; brothers, Elijah Davis (Evelyn), Willie Carr Davis (Endolyn), James Davis (Marilyn); sisters-in-law, Mary Palms, Cynthia Nailer; brothers-in-law, Collis Dickinson (Mary), Larry Austin (Venus), Willie Johns, Jr. (Dorothy); aunt, Mae Nora White; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Special thanks to his cousins, Virginia Morrison and Suzette Davis for taking him to his appointments in Douglas, Georgia, even if they had to take off from work to take him. Thank you to his cousin Dianne Austin for cooking his turnip greens, which he loved with cracklin cornbread. I cannot say thank you enough, to his niece, Alice Parks, for taking him to his doctor’s appointments, taking me to visit him when he was in Tallahassee, Florida, and for your kind heart, whenever we need help, no matter the time, when we call, you always respond, “I’m on my way”. Words cannot express our heartfelt gratitude.

Home going service for Deacon Claude Davis will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at 1:00 P. M. at Thomas Chapel Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Loyd Salary, Jr. Pastor, Officiating. Burial will follow in the Pallbearer Cemetery. If you are unable to attend the service, please join us on scottandrobertsmortuary.com to witness the home going service of Deacon Claude Davis. Just a reminder that masks will be required at the service.

Blessings