Chapter Eternal: Bill Davis ’59

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of brother Bill Davis ’59 into Chapter Eternal. We want to extend our deepest sympathies to Bill’s family, friends, and loved ones. View the obituary below.

Source Courtesy of Soller-Baker

Bill was the son of Margaret R. and Russell F. Davis and was born on August 24, 1937.  He died unexpectedly on November 19, 2021.  Bill was married to one of GOD’s Angels, Suzanne McCoy Leaming, on June 20, 1959 with whom they had five children: Russell, Drew, Mary Elizabeth (Betsy), John (Jed) and Sarah; and was blessed with seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  He has a surviving brother, Duane (Bud) and was preceded in death by his loving sisters, Jane and Beverly.

He graduated from Purdue University, where he earned his degree in civil engineering and was very active in the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, where he met many lifelong friends.  He then attended Stanford University and returned to Indiana upon the death of his father Russell F. Davis to manage his father’s business, Russell F. Davis Construction.  Bill was dedicated to helping his community and was instrumental in the extension of City utilities to out-lying communities of Lafayette.  He was a member of the Indiana Constructors, Inc., past-president of the Indiana Highway Association, and served in the US Army Reserve.  He was also an active member of Stidham United Methodist Church, where he nurtured his relationship with God. Bill loved his God, his Wife, his family and his friends.

A private service will be held.  Interment will be at Spring Grove Cemetery in Lafayette.  A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date.  In Lieu of flowers, send donations to:  Stidham United Methodist Church, 5300 S. 175 W. Lafayette, IN 47909 or Natalies No-Kill Shelter, 10 S. 16th Street, Lafayette, IN 47901