Harold E. Davis

Harold Eugene Davis, 83, of Merriam, KS passed away January 30, 2015, in Springfield, MO, surrounded by his daughters and grandchildren. Harold was born July 8, 1931 in Leavenworth, KS. Adopted at five days old to Vera and Ishmael Davis, he spent his early life and school years in St. Joseph, Mo. He later moved to Kansas City, Mo with his parents at age 16 where he attended Paseo High School.

Harold served four years in the U.S. Navy. After an honorable discharge he obtained a bachelors and masters degree in History and Government and a PhD in Educational Administration. He taught junior high and high school in the Shawnee Mission School District, and was a college professor, finally serving as Dean at Penn Valley Community College. After leaving the education profession, he began a successful second career in the savings and loan business.

To relax he enjoyed boating, fishing, flying, traveling, reading, and spending time on the deck with his "bride" of 59 years. Upon retirement, Harold drove a school bus for the Shawnee Mission school district; the very district in which he had taught for so many years. He delighted in getting to know the children and their families with whom he became well acquainted; often receiving cards, cookies and many thanks for his small acts of kindness. He was a member of the Commemorative Air Force and was editor of their newsletter for ten years.

He published three books personalizing the experiences of Johnson County residents; profiling veterans and civilians who were touched by the wars and conflicts of WWII and beyond. He was also a member of Friends of the Shawnee Indian Mission and American Legion. He had an enthusiasm for life and people. Learning and new experiences kept him young. He was a patriot and proud of his Irish heritage. He loved talking history and current events around the kitchen table with his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marian Stillinger Davis. He is survived by his two daughters, Sheri L. Davidson of Springfield, MO and Renee L. Davis of Kansas City, MO; four loving grandchildren, Matthew, BriAnna, Andrew and Samuel; and a sister, Amaryilis Garver of St. Joseph, Mo.

His life will be celebrated at a memorial service to be held Saturday, March 7th at 1 pm at the Amos Family Funeral Home & Crematory. A reception will follow the service.