11/3/1960 – 8/23/2017
Darrell “Ray” Davis, known to everyone as Ray, was born November 3, 1960 in Omaha, Nebraska. His mother didn’t have time to make it to the hospital so he was born at home. He was the baby of nine children born to Jeremiah Sr. and Vinnie Lee Davis. Ray’s mother was paralyzed from polio at the time of his birth which left her unable to care for him as a baby. Ms. Mattie Hendricks, who at the time of Ray’s birth was caring for his mother assumed the role of primary caregiver for Ray along with his older siblings.
Ray had several proud moments in his life, one of which happened to be his accomplishment in education. He demonstrated perseverance and determination while working on his education. Ray successfully completed the required classes and earned his General Education Diploma from Creighton University in 2009.
Ray was a hard worker. His most recent employment was as a contract worker for an apartment complex, where he worked for several years. He managed a variety of jobs and often provided employment opportunities for others in need. Ray had a close bond with his boss and built lasting relationships with co-workers. He was dedicated and dependable and could be counted on to get the job done. Ray was a selfless person with a big heart. He was known for thinking of others and putting others needs before his own, even though his own struggles in life.
Ray was always a believer of Jesus Christ. He had a longing for a closer relationship with God. On February 9, 2017 he was baptized by his brother accepting Christ as his personal Lord and Savior.
Ray loved his family and friends tremendously. He strived to be a good father to his children and grandfather to his grandchildren. His grandchildren called him “Grandfather,” and he enjoyed spending time with them. He also enjoyed listening to music, attending family events where he was always taking pictures, cruising down Carter Lake and spending alone time.
After a courageous three year battle with cancer, Ray entered into eternal peace on Wednesday, August 23, 2017 surrounded by family. He was relentless, never complaining, positive, and encouraging to those around him. Ray never truly expressed to anyone the real struggles that he faced during this battle, choosing instead to remain strong and maintain his independence.
Ray was proceeded in death by his parents, Jeremiah Sr. and Vinnie Lee Davis; foster mother, Ms. Mattie Hendricks; and nephew, George Davis, Jr.
Ray leaves behind to cherish his memories his son, Darrell Ray, Jr., Omaha, Nebraska; daughter, Shantel Nichol, Omaha, Nebraska; grandsons, Jamir, and Rylin; granddaughters, Desirae, Destinee, R’rhianna, and Re’shaye; brothers, George Davis, Sr., Jeremiah (Betty) Davis, Jesse (Hazel) Davis, Edward Davis, Sr.; sisters, Doris Clausen, Norma Davis, Gardenia Davis, and Mary (Bettye) Davis; longtime companion, Sharon Savage; longtime friend Glen Whitney, all of Omaha, Nebraska; and a host of cousins, nephews, nieces other relatives and friends.
Visitation Thursday 6:00 – 8:00 PM; Service 1:00 PM Friday (9/1/2017) all at Roeder Mortuary 4932 Ames Avenue Omaha, Nebraska; Interment Mount Hope Cemetery Omaha, Nebraska
