Samuel L. Davis

Samuel L. Davis, 82, of Visalia, passed away at home on Monday, March 8 surrounded by family. Born in Fort Smith, Arkansas on June 5, 1927, Sam moved to California in the early 1940’s. In 1947 he married Ruby Marie Parker and they established roots of their own in Visalia.

In the late 1940’s, Sam’s mother Edith, built a bar & café in Visalia. The business was later sold and the name was changed to Searcy’s. In the early 1980’s Sam bought the bar & café back. It is still operating today and remains in the Davis family.

In 1960, Sam set out to make his mark on the automotive towing industry and established Sam Davis Towing of Visalia. Upon his retirement, the California Highway Patrol honored Sam for his dedication and service to the city of Visalia and the state of California. Sam Davis Towing is still going strong and will continue to be an integral part of Visalia’s towing services.

Throughout the years Sam took part in many different community activities. He was a member of the Exeter and Visalia Sportsman’s Club, was given an honorary membership in the American Legion and supported many community youth activities, including Visalia National Little League and Visalia Pop Warner Football Cheerleaders. Sam also had a flair for the wild side. He loved to race motorcycles and in the early 1950’s was a Valley Champion Bull Rider. After a few close encounters with the bulls, he decided he’d better take care of his family which now included is first daughter Jennifer Ann.

He was always there when anyone needed a helping hand. He never new a stranger and would offer the shirt off of his back to anyone who needed it. However, Sam also never knew a fight he didn't finish!!!

Sam was ALWAYS the family man and ultimate Daddy. His daughters were always

there to see his motorcycle racing and bull riding. Whether he was hunting or fishing or even dancing with his lovely Ruby, the girls were never left home to wonder what fun mom and dad where having. Jennifer and Kathy were always a very big part of their Daddy's world and his girls are forever grateful for the time, memories and love that he gave to them in so very special ways.

Sam was preceded in death by his loving wife of 44 years, Ruby Marie Davis, in 1991. He is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Edwards and her husband Don of Visalia, CA; Kathy Jones and her husband Gary of Twin Falls, ID; his devoted friend and companion Bobbie Dickerson; godchild Greg Sturm and his son Calvin; his grandchildren, Samantha and George Hine; Candice and George Weaver; Joseph Edwards; Don and Amy Edwards; Gary Lee & Sarah Jones and 14 great grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 1pm at Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 West Goshen Ave, Visalia with graveside service to follow at the Visalia Cemetery. If you would like to share your thoughts and memories of Samuel “Sam” Davis with his family you can do so at the following website:

Arrangements under the direction of Miller Memorial Chapel, Visalia, CA