Martin Neil Davis

Known in his family for his wonderfully strong hugs, Neil received that most desired of all strong hugs, from his Savior, along with His words, "Well done thou good and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy of your Lord."

Neil was born on March 8, 1927 in Burkburnett Texas, the son of the late George T. and Sarah Jewell Davis. He graduated from Electra, Texas high school, attended the University of Oklahoma, Southern Nazarene University and Midwestern State University. He worked most of his career as an engineer for Mobil Oil. The hallmarks of Neil's life were his sweet spirit and servant heart which he displayed to people close and far. He served his country in both the Merchant Marines and the National Guard. He served Mobil Oil by locating and helping drill many profitable oil reserves in North Texas. He served his Lord Jesus Christ in a wide variety of roles: church treasurer, Sunday School Superintendent and teacher, builder and planner of the Electra Nazarene Church. He served his family as a faithful husband, dedicated daddy, and beloved son while also serving many relatives in multiple ways over the years, most often as executor of their estates (at no cost, of course!)

How do you capture in ink on paper the legacy and life of a man like Neil? Not by listing accomplishments, although he had many. Not by positions held or responsibilities shouldered, although they were numerous. One can best capture Neil's legacy by the width and depth of his influence on those he loved and who loved him. Neil's influence is immeasurably wide and deep, far beyond the meter of man. But we received a glimpse of the scope of his legacy through his love and service to us.

Neil is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Ruth and the children and grandchildren who adored him: Diane (Jim) Priest, Karen (David) Sandlin, Steve (Dee) Davis and Scott (Anne Bramman) Davis, along with grandchildren, Amanda (Martin) Howell, Spencer Priest, Madeline Fulton, Elyssa, Gillian, Wyatt Davis, Molly Sandlin, Austin Sandlin, and one great-grandson, James Howell.

A private family memorial service will be held on July 11, at Crestview Memorial Park in Wichita Falls. Neil's celebration of life will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Wichita Falls First Church of the Nazarene, 1667 Kell Boulevard, with a reception to follow. Family visitation will be during the Wednesday reception, however family and friends may pay respect from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 10 at Hampton Vaughan Funeral Home. Online condolences welcomed at: www.hamptonvaughncrestview.com