Willis Lawrence Davis

Mr. Willis Lawrence Davis, age 102 of Sanford NC transitioned into eternal rest on Saturday, November 13, 2021, in Welcome, Maryland at his granddaughter's residence.

Celebrating the Life of Pastor Willis L. Davis

Pastor Willis Lawrence Davis transitioned to be with his Lord & Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, November 13, 2021, at his granddaughter’s home in Welcome, Maryland while surrounded by loved ones.

Willis L. Davis was born February 5, 1919, in Washington D.C., to the late Willis Davis and Almeda (Minor) Davis. He was preceded in death by his sister, Laura Davis and his brother, Warren Davis.  He was educated in D.C. public schools and shortly thereafter, served in the US Army for two years before being honorably discharged. He was a World War II Veteran.  Later, he pursued and graduated with a degree from DC Teachers College.  He later attended Washington Bible College and received a theology degree

He married the love of his life the late Helen L. Davis on November 27th, 1946 and they had one daughter, Diedre. They shared an amazing marriage filled with love for 66 years.  The couple served the LORD together their entire marriage, pastoring and mentoring to everyone that GOD led to them.

For many years, Pastor Davis worked in various venues, on the US Railroad system, US Government Printing office and as a Capital Cab driver.

Pastor Davis, was the overseer of the Imanuel Bible Assembly located in Washington, DC, for many years, where he shepherd his flock faithfully as instructed by God. As a elder, he “exercised oversight, not under compulsion, but willingingly as God would have him, not for shameful gain, but eagerly, not domineering over those in his charge, but as an example to the flock”(1 Peter 5:2-3). 

Pastor Davis was a loving and kind devoted husband, loving father, amazing grandfather, great-grand father, great great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor.  He built a legacy of hard work, dedication to his family, and above everything else, but more importantly, his service to and for God. He was a humble servant of Jesus Christ and pastored to everyone that he met all throughout his life! Always sharing his favorite scripture Psalm 46:10….”Be Still and KNOW that I am GOD”

Pastor Davis is survived by his daughter, Diedre (Richard-deceased) Johnson-Cole; two granddaughters, Norissa (Brian) Anderson, LaShawn (Calvin) Westley; six great-grandchildren, Nasia (Brady) Devore, Nadia Danielle Anderson, Brenden M. Anderson, Davion Cole, Calvin Westley, Jr., and Cameron Westley; one great great-granddaughter, Katari A. Devore; and a host of other relatives and friends that will forever remember and love him.

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Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home- Sanford