Donald Wayne Davis

Donald Wayne Davis, age 80, passed away on March 1, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Farmers, Kentucky, Don answered his nation’s call to duty on 7th January 1968 during one of the most difficult periods in American history proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army A308th S&S Battalion during the Vietnam War.

During his service, he earned the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, two Overseas Service Bars, marksmanship badges, and the Army Commendation Medal — recognition of meritorious service and dedication to duty. We honor not only the medals he wore, but the character he carried — duty, humility, and commitment. His service was part of a larger story of sacrifice that defined a generation. We thank him for his courage. We thank him for his service. And we honor the legacy he leaves behind.

After his military career, Don worked in communications construction until his retirement. Of all the roles he held, the one he treasured most was being “Papaw.” He was beloved as Papaw to his five children, thirteen grandchildren, and ten great‑grandchildren.

Don loved spending time with his family, tending to his garden, and watching NASCAR. His warmth, humor, and generous spirit touched everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years; Donna L. Davis and children Penny Hammonds, Travis Jackson & Tara Brook Smedley. Grandchildren Karley Davis, Jessica Cunningham, Madeleine Quillen, Brooke Rivers, Bailey Ward, Isaac Graham, Destiny Jackson, Kristen Walker, Kayla Jackson, Alexis Jackson, Jamie Jackson, Aidan Sullivan, Ashtyn Blakley, ten Great Grandchildren (his babies) and Siblings Steve Davis, Tim Davis & Shelby Russell (numerous nieces & nephews)

Don was preceded in death by his parents; Arnold & Beulah [Elam] Davis, son; Jeffrey Davis, daughter; Jodi Honeycutt & siblings; Dennis Davis, Frederick Davis, Barbara Davis Sparks & Betty Razor.

The family will receive friends at Calvary Lighthouse Baptist Church 655 Way Cross Rd Church Hill, Tennessee on Wednesday March 4th from 5-7pm. Memorial service to follow in the chapel at 7pm.

Interment ceremony to be held on Thursday March 5th at 10:00am in the VA Mountain Home National Cemetery at 215 Heroes Dr Mountain Home, TN 37684. Military Honors provided by American Legion Hammond Post No. 3 Kingsport, TN.