Bobby Joe Davis

CMSGT Bobby Joe “Cat” Davis, Ret., gave his final salute in this world and reported for eternal service to his ultimate Commander-in-Chief, Jesus Christ, on August 18, 2015. His life was best exemplified as a soldier in service for his faith, and to his family, friends and fellow man.

Family will receive friends on Sunday, August 23, 2015 from 2 o’clock p.m. until 5 o’clock p.m. The celebration of life service will be held in the Chapel at Baldwin Lee Funeral Home Pearl, MS on Monday August 24, 2015 at 2:30 o’clock p.m./1430 hours.

Davis was a longtime member of Pearson Baptist Church where he served in many capacities, most notably as a Trustee of the church, for many years. As a younger man, he chose membership in the senior adult Sunday School class, soaking up the wisdom of those who had traveled before him in life’s journey.

Davis was honored to serve his country in a military career that spanned 42 years beginning in 1948 when he joined the U.S. Army. An early highpoint in his career was serving on the Honor Guard at the second inauguration of President Harry S. Truman. Additionally, Davis was a member of an exclusive Fraternity of Honor – “The Chosin Few,” who fought in the fierce battle at the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea.

After returning to Mississippi, Davis joined the Army National Guard, later transferring to the newly-formed Air National Guard unit in Jackson in 1956. His education and professional development continued as he attended the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy, where he graduated with honors. He was privileged to head one of the first Non-Destructive Inspection Regional Laboratories in the Air National Guard. Davis worked diligently as Chief in every area of field maintenance with 21 years as Squadron First Sergeant, during which time he was named Non-Commissioned Officer of the year and secured his place in the Air National Guard Hall of Fame, among other honors. His ongoing missions traversed time, geography, and endured diverse political changes through his many years as he served in Vietnam through Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

In 1991, Davis retired as Chief Master Sergeant/Field Maintenance Superintendent of the 172nd Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron of the Mississippi Air National Guard where he, along with other officers and airmen, celebrated many “firsts” of the squadron – most notably, the unit’s exemplary and impeccable flight safety record. At his retirement, Davis’ heartfelt admiration was best summarized by one of his men who said, “He is not respected because he is the Chief, but rather for who he is.”

Davis not only fought for his country but was on the frontline of another protracted battle in 1968 as the residents of Pearl began the process of incorporating their community. Elected to serve as Alderman-at-Large, he was one of the founding fathers of Pearl, who, along with many citizens of the newly created city, celebrated the great victory handed down by the Mississippi Supreme Court on June 5, 1973. Davis subsequently enjoyed many positions of community leadership for over 50 years.

Many know the personal battle Davis fought on his family’s home front, when his younger daughter Donna, was rendered a quadriplegic in 1978. As with all the challenges set before him, he demonstrated loyal devotion, perseverance, and an unwavering love for Donna, who preceded him in death, along with his beloved mother, Inez Patrick-Davis, and father, Johnny Davis.

His quick wit, masterful problem-solving abilities, expertise, and proficiency in so many disciplines will be missed by many, but none more than his family who will forever cherish his memory - Mary Virginia Farr Davis, his treasured wife of 61 years, and his daughter, Debbie Davis Blackledge (also known as Cat’s “wingman”) and husband Dennis, who was like a son to him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to The City of Pearl, Dr. Jo Harbor, the staffs of Dr. Jolanta Roszkowska, Chaplain David Allen and The Community Living Center. There are no words to describe the depth of our appreciation to Edie Hudson and Jane Johnson and the personal care team who cared for him with such loving dedication.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to French Camp Academy of Mississippi, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, VFW, American Legion, Pearson Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.