Jessie A. “Dave” Davis, age 78, of Hillsboro, Ohio, formerly of Kentucky and originally from Toledo, Oregon, passed away peacefully at his home in Ohio on Friday morning, July 11, 2025.
He was born on January 28, 1947, in San Diego, California, the son of the late James Paul Davis and Gloria Y. Alvarado Davis. On May 16, 1969, he married the love of his life, Lorena Mae Biglow Davis, who survives. Together, they shared over 55 years of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.
Dave proudly enlisted in the United States Navy at the young age of 16 and went on to serve his country with distinction for over 26 years, including during the Vietnam War era. He retired with honor, having earned the respect and admiration of his fellow sailors and superiors. His lifelong dedication to service reflected the values he lived by: duty, discipline, and integrity.
After retiring from the Navy, Dave continued to serve his country as a civilian with the Department of the Army. From 1992 to 2009, he worked in security operations. His exceptional performance earned him the Achievement Medal for Civilian Service, recognizing his professionalism, dedication, and lasting contributions.
Though he passed away in Ohio, Dave made his home in Kentucky for many years and carried with him the heart and values of his Toledo, Oregon upbringing throughout his life.
Outside of his professional life, Dave was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was known for his strength, quiet wisdom, and dry sense of humor. He loved spending time with his family, whether sharing stories, offering guidance, or simply enjoying a meal together. Dave had a passion for traveling, always eager to explore new places and take in new experiences. He also enjoyed recreational shooting, and found great joy in teaching his children and grandchildren how to shoot safely and responsibly-passing down not just skills, but confidence, patience, and respect for the tradition.
In addition to his beloved wife, Dave is survived by his daughter, Tonya and husband Vaughn Aber of Hillsboro; a son, James Davis and wife Lisa Davis and a son David Davis; several cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren; two brothers, Allen Davis and wife Kayleen Davis and Tony Davis; one sister, Inez Davis Crumal and husband Rick Crumal; and many loving nieces and nephews who will miss his steady presence, quiet laughter, and thoughtful advice.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Gloria Davis, and his beloved granddaughter, Jessica Lynch, whose memory remained deeply close to his heart. A gathering of family and friends will be on Friday, July 18 from 5-7 PM at the Rhoads-Edgington Funeral Home, 138 East Main Street, Hillsboro. Funeral Services will be held 11:30 AM, Saturday, July 19 at the Rhoads-Edgington Funeral Home with Pastor Karl Flem officiating. A graveside service will follow in the Barker Cemetery, Pricetown, Ohio where Dave will be accorded full military honors from active duty US Navy personnel and the Highland County Honor Guard. Dave’s legacy is one of service, loyalty, and love - for his country, his family, and the life he lived to the fullest. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. To sign the online guest book, go to edgingtonfuneralhomes.com. Memorial Contributions in Dave's memory may be given to the Safe Harbor Foundation, 2961-A Hunter Mill Rd., Suite 644,Oakton, VA 22124 or safeharborfoundation.org
Rhoads-Edgington Funeral Home
Rhoads-Edgington Funeral Home
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