TheLife&Legacyof RobertLeeDavis
Mr. Robert Lee Davis, affectionately known as “Robert Lee” by his family and “R.L.,” by his coworkers, was born on May 27, 1943, in Sumter, South Carolina, to the late George Davis and Inez Cooke Davis. On October 10, 2025, Robert peacefully transitioned from this life to life eternal.
Robert was a man of unwavering faith. He attended Greater Walter’s AME Zion Church during his early years and later united with Gethsemane Baptist Church in Newport News, Virginia, where he remained a faithful member for over twenty years. At Gethsemane, he was actively involved in the Men’s Ministry, regularly attended the Men’s Breakfast, and joyfully lifted his voice as a devoted member of the Male Chorus. Robert was a true worshipper who loved the Word of God and could often be found in service with a smile and a song.
A proud graduate of George Washington Carver High School, Class of 1962, Robert furthered his studies at Norfolk State University. He went on to build a distinguished career at Newport News Shipbuilding, where he served faithfully in the X31 Department as a Master Shipbuilder. His exceptional work ethic and skill led him to travel across the country representing the shipyard in places such as Maine, Georgia, Washington, and Hawaii, which he fondly referred to as his “second home.” In every place he visited, Robert left a lasting impression through his sunny disposition, professionalism, and love for witty conversation.
Robert was a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan and an avid follower of local high school football, especially enjoying reruns of Hampton and Phoebus games on Channel 43. In his retirement years, he enjoyed the quiet comforts of home, content in the company of family and the memories of a life well lived.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, George and Inez Davis; siblings, Mary Kelly (Mae), Inez Tilton (Peaches), George Davis Jr. (Bubba), James Ronnie Davis, and Eugene Davis; former spouse, Edna Pressley Davis; and former mother-in-law, Edna Mobley.
He leaves to cherish his precious memories: one son, Carl “Jerome” Davis (Audrey); two grandchildren, Kory Davis and Kyla Davis; one great-grandson, Aiden Coleman; siblings, Jack Davis, Mike Davis (Sharon), Joyce Davis, and Helen Davis; devoted friend, Alice Rogers; and a host of loving family members and dear friends.
Pallbearers
Family and Friends
The family of Robert Lee Davis extends our heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support during this time of loss. Your kindness has been a great comfort to us as we celebrate the life of an extraordinary man who touched the lives of many.
May God bless each of you for your expressions of sympathy and acts of kindness.
When I come to the end of the road and the sun has set on me, I want no rites in a gloom-filled room, why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little--but not too long, and not with your head bowed low, Remember the love that we once shared, miss me--but let me go. For this is a journey that we all must take, and each must go alone. It’s all a part of the Master’s plan, a step on the road to home. When you are lonely and sick of heart, go to the friends we know. sorrows in doing good deeds, s me--but let me go.
Author Unknown
