Richard Dale Davis

Richard Dale “Tex” Davis, age 57, was born October 18, 1957 to James R. & Eleanor J. (Tanner) Davis in Marion, Illinois. With his family at his bedside, the Lord called him home on Tuesday morning, December 16, 2014, at 3:36 AM at the home of his brother in Marion, Illinois. Through his journey on Earth, Dale worked as a truck driver, being over the road for many years. He was known to many by his CB Handle “Tex Ritter.” He retired in 2010 from Renee Trucking in Marion as his health would no longer allow him to work. His love for his community was shown by his being a trustee for the Village of Buncombe and involved in various community projects which includes the fire department. His biggest regret was having to retire from the Buncombe Fire Department. He served 20 years (1990-2010) as a firefighter and the last 4 years as chief. He was always willing to show a new recruit all he had been taught by his past chiefs. He loved the outdoors, especially enjoying hunting and fishing with family & friends, as long as his health permitted. Dale married Sue Ellen (nee Marks) on September 11, 2004. She survives. Dale would often say that being a truck driver and family man was not a good combination for him, as he didn’t see his children or step children as he would like. But, he loved them all. In addition to his wife Sue, Dale is survived by: his children – Tonya Davis & Jay Wilson, Sabrina Davis & Shawn Gardner of Johnston City, Richard “Richie” Davis and Keith Davis of Marion; his step children – Della (Matt) Naese of Buncombe, Guy Michael (Jamie) Simmons of Buncombe, Angela (Troy) Kerley of Simpson, Miketa (Brian) Warren of Vienna, Tommy (Kelly) Groner of Buncombe, and David Marks of Buncombe; 23 grandchildren; 2 sisters – Diane (Stanley) Shadowens of Marion and Brenda (Nathion) Nutter of Montalba, Texas; a brother – Mark Davis of Marion; as well as a host of extended family and many dear friends. A walk-thru by members of the Buncombe Volunteer Fire Department and other fire and emergency personnel will be conducted at 2 PM Saturday, December 20, 2014, at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Military honors will be accorded by the Beggs-Gurley VFW Post # 5222 and the Illinois National Guard Burial Honors Detail. The family will greet friends from 1 PM – 2 PM Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Women’s & Firefighters Auxiliary of Buncombe, P.O. Box 95, Buncombe, IL 62912.

Richard Dale Davis

October 18, 1957 - December 16, 2014