OBITUARY: James Terry Davis

James “Terry” Davis, 79, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his Foley, AL home on April 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Columbia, TN on April 23, 1945, to Sarah Frances (Sharp) Davis and John Smith Davis. Upon graduation from Columbia Central High School, he followed in his father’s footsteps and began his career at Union Carbide where he faithfully served as both a Millwright and in the maintenance department for over 40 years.

Terry was married to the love of his life, Shirley Ann (Dale) Davis for 56 loving years. Together they accomplished their lifelong dreams as they raised their two children on Hickory Hill farm in Maury County, TN. Together they owned a camp on Tom’s Creek at the Tennessee River where they enjoyed special friends, his love for jet boats, and listening to his favorite jukebox. They shared a love for a Sunday drive owning multiple Corvettes (always red). Finally, they fulfilled their dream of moving to Gulf Shores, AL where they enjoyed “the big water”. Above all, his family meant the most to him.

He is preceded in death by his father, John Davis; mother, Frances Davis; loving wife, Shirley Davis; son, Preston Davis; and very special brother-in-law, Ernest “Hop” Dale.

He is survived in death by his daughter, Shannon Davis (David Gibson); granddaughters, Jessica Spears (Jimmy Marshall), Kayla Fleming (Drake); great grandchildren, Mason Marshall, Avery Fleming, and Mack Fleming; sister, Carol Haywood (Alfred); nephews, Delano Haywood and Dana Haywood (Stephanie).

Respecting his wishes a small intimate service will be held with immediate family only including spreading his ashes at his favorite beach and a burial at Jones Cemetery in Columbia, TN.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to very special neighbors, Bob and Mary Ann Barca, Ricky and Joyce Barner, and Community Hospice for their love and support in his final days.