John Robert Davis

John R. Davis, 69, of Mint Hill, NC passed away on Monday, December 4, 2023 surrounded by his loved ones. John was born on September 14, 1954 to Charlton “Curly” Davis and Katherine Godfrey Davis in Nuremburg, Germany while Curly was serving in the Army.

John served in the US. Navy from 1974-1979 as a Seabee, completing a short tour in Vietnam, earning a Purple Heart medal, and also served in Diego Garcia. Upon his return to the states, he was stationed at Camp David and also served at the White House. John was present for the The Camp David Accords involving Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin in 1978. John was also honored to receive Presidential commendations and four Presidential Christmas cards. Upon the end of his military career, John earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Colorado State University. During his professional career he was employed by prestigious companies such as Volvo, Manheim Auctions and Drive Time in engineering and management positions. Through employment with a dealership, John became a Cadillac Master Mechanic.

John is best known for his love of classic cars that started when he was just a boy. If it could roll down the road, he wanted to know more. His eyes lit up when seeing the introduction of the 1964 Mustang at a local dealership. His father’s purchase of a Ford Galaxy sold him on larger body cars. Over the years, John became well versed in all aspects of many makes and models, including his beloved Chevrolets and Buicks with the desire to save every car he could. He was not only interested in the mechanics and bodies of all domestic cars, but the history and development of various makes and models. John became known as an expert and mentor who could study a problem and come up with just the right solution. He became the “go-to” person for many classic car owners in the area.

John is survived by his partner in life, Betsey Walker, of Mint Hill; son, Jeremy (Carrie) of Myersville, MD; brothers, Joe (Jolene) of Melbourne, FL and Tim (Karen) of Yuma, AZ; grandson, Tyler; and many cousins, nephews and nieces whom he loved very much. Predeceasing John are his parents and brother, Kenny Davis.

A service to celebrate John’s life will be held 2:00 pm Monday, December 18, 2023, at McEwen Funeral Service-Mint Hill Chapel, 7428 Matthews-Mint Hill Road in Mint Hill.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be offered at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.