MSG (Ret.) Donald William Davis, Sr.

Master Sergeant (MSG, Retired) Donald W. Davis, Sr. born on October 15, 1941 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the late Harrison Nathaniel Davis, Jr. and the late Mildred Johnson Davis. On Tuesday, October 10, 2023, God called his faithful servant’s soul to eternal rest at his home in Columbia, South Carolina.

He began his faith walk with God at Mt. Wesley United Methodist Church in Snow Hill, Maryland. Once he moved to Columbia, South Carolina he joined Bethel A.M.E Church where he faithfully attended until he transitioned.

Donnie D., as he was affectionately known, started his educational journey in Camden, New Jersey. At an early age, his family moved to Snow Hill, Maryland where he continued his education in the Worcester County Public School System. In 1958, Donnie began his military journey in the US Marine Corps where he served four years in Camp LeJeune, North Carolina.  After a short stint as a civilian, he re-entered the US Armed Forces as a Private in the US Army on May 17, 1963. Donnie advanced his career and continued his education by taking courses in Ranger Training, Pathfinder, Recondo, Mountain Training, Basic Airborne, Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (2), Tank Commander, Mechondo and Club Manager. In 1989, he received his Associate in Public Services in Criminology Justice Technology from Midlands Technical College.

Donnie served his country in Vicenza, Italy; Ludwigsburg, Germany; Fort Hood, Texas; and Fort Jackson, South Carolina.  He fought in the Vietnam War. At one point, he was held as a Prisoner of War (POW) in Vietnam.

While servicing his country he received the following medals and badges: National Defense Service Medal, ARMY Commendation Medal with 3d Oak Leaf Cluster (OLC), Bronze Star Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 Device, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, 2 Purple Hearts, Combat Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with 5th DVC, Ranger Badge, Safe Driver Badge, ARMY Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (1st AWD), American Campaign Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal (6th AWD). 

Donnie retired, in 1984 as a Master Sergeant in Fort Jackson, South Carolinia.  Following his retirement, he worked on the Fort Jackson Base as Contracting Officer Representative (COR).

Donnie, the second eldest of seven siblings took his position as the “General” in the family very seriously. He was the definition of a Gentleman’s Gentleman. His graciousness was unparalleled. Whether he was delivering good or bad news his infectious smile and big hugs made all things well. He was loved by many and respected by all.  He had an enormous heart and a great sense of humor. He was a leader and a provider, not only was he a pillar to his family but also in the community.  Donnie demonstrated Agape love to anyone he encountered. He never met a stranger. If anyone called on him within reason, without hesitation he was there.

Donnie was a 32nd Degree Mason member of the Central Texas Consistory No. 306 Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation.  He was the Co-founder of the Retired Armed Forces Veterans Club (RAFVC) where he served eight years as President. 

He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and the Purple Heart Association.

He was also an entrepreneur, Davis Consulting, LLC and a Notary Public.

MSG (Retired) Donald W. Davis, Sr. leaves to cherish his memory five children, Donald Marcellus Davis, Maurice Williams (Carmela), Laura McGraw, Deborah Davis, and Donald Davis, II; fifteen grandchildren; thirty-six great-grandchildren; three godchildren Nina Coleman, Shacoiya Sanderlin, Chakeita Sanderlin; six siblings, Shirley Murphy, Edward Davis, Juanita Edgerton, Ruth Brown, Elbert Davis (Vanessa), Marjorie Lawson; a host of nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends who will miss his smile and laughter dearly.  He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Bianka Williams and his son-in-law, Lonnie McGraw.

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