Elmer Ray Davis, Sr., 71, departed his earthly life on Monday, May 30, 2011 at his home after a lengthy illness. He was a lifelong resident of Winston-Salem, NC and attended the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, a graduate of Atkins High School class of 1958. Mr. Davis retired from RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company, Whitaker Park Plant in 1998 after 34 years of service. He was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church on Highland Avenue, Winston-Salem and served on the Usher Board and was recognized as a Golden Star Member.
Mr. Davis married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Betty on June 10, 1960 and cherished and loved her for 51 years until his death. Mr. Davis was a devoted father and grandfather and diligent care giver for many and throughout his life he worked tirelessly to provide for his family and anyone that he could help no matter the need.
Mr. Davis was preceded in death by his parents, Parker and Maude Davis; and his five brothers and four sisters.
He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Betty; his children, Bishop E. Ray Davis, Jr. of High Point, NC, Carl (Kelly) Davis, Carol Davis, and Michelle Paige all of Winston-Salem, NC; nine grandchildren, Latisha, Carl II, Chawaundra, Moriah, Daisha, Ivana, Stephanie, Amber, and Jason; three great-grandchildren, Haleigh, Jaedon, and Nataleigh; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 10am Saturday, June 4, 2011 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel with Bishop E. Ray Davis, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Parklawn Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 9:30am until 10am on Saturday at the funeral home. A private viewing for family only will be held prior to visitation.
The family would like to express sincere thanks to Hospice, Genesis Victory Outreach Center, Russell Funeral Home, First Baptist Church, The Flores Family, Dr. Betsy English, Novant Medical Center, and to all who have prayed and assisted during our time of need. May God richly bless you is our prayer.