Mel was predeceased by his wife, Faye Owens Davidson, his son Roland M. Davidson, sister, Joyce Clark, brother William Davidson, and his parents, W.H. and Susie Jarvis Davidson.
He is survived by his son, Kenneth, one sister, Betty Ann Howell, one grandson, Harris Davidson, and two granddaughters, Lily and Clair Davidson.
Mel could best be described as a “man for all seasons”; he graduated from Semmes High School in 1958 and immediately joined the US Army, where he served with distinction in trouble spots around the world in Special Forces. Following his release from active duty, Mel took a position with Air America in the very dangerous areas of Laos and Vietnam, where he provided rescue and replenishment operations primarily by helicopter. After that adventure, Mel began a career in financial management that led to leadership positions, including many years with Merrill Lynch and Paine Webber.
After retiring, Mel and Faye moved back to their hometown of Semmes, where he took up the hobby of woodwork. This evolved into turning various wood pieces into objects of art, which he freely gave to family and friends.
As it became obvious that cancer and kidney failure were bringing him near the end of his time on earth, Mel bravely decided to let nature take its course by stopping dialysis treatment and entering hospice care.
Mel was a highly accomplished and trusted friend who was admired and respected by all who knew him.
Graveside services will be held at Semmes First Baptist Church Cemetery at 2 PM Monday, September 11, followed by a memorial gathering at Semmes First Baptist Church, where both he and Faye were lifetime members.
There is no doubt among those who knew him that Mel is now in the arms of Jesus.
Mel was a highly accomplished and trusted friend who had no problem telling people his opinion and always seemed to base it up on fact.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com for the Davidson family.
