Robert J. Davis

Robert J. 'Bob' Davis peacefully passed from this life on Tuesday, August 9, 2011 in Maryville, TN. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife and partner, Lula Belle Eggers Davis, his parents Katella and Joe Davis, his stepmother, Mae Davis, his brother Andrew and sister Jodie, and nephews Andy and Jeff Davis. He is survived by his three adult children and their spouses, Sharon Davis Freeman (Joe), Rebecca Davis Stegmann (Jeff), and Robert Joseph, 'Bob' Davis. Jr. (Linda) True to his memory are his grandchildren, Lindsey, Charley (Terry), Becky, John, Ashton and Reese, as well as five great grandchildren. He also leaves behind brother-in-law Steve Carrier, sister-in-laws Allie Davis, Rusty Cross, Marie Eggers, and Betty Eggers, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Bob was born Nov. 30, 1923 in the Prospect community of Blount County. His father was a farmer, and for a time Bob worked on the family farm. He later joined the Army, and as part of our greatest generation, Bob served during World War II in the European Theatre of Operation. Bob went to college on the GI Bill, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree from Tennessee Tech University. He was awarded his Masters Degree in Education from George Peabody College at Vanderbilt in Nashville. He married the love of his life, Lula Belle Eggers, in May of 1953. Bob was a graduate of Everett High School, where he later taught history. He became principal in 1958 and at that time was the youngest principal in the State of Tennessee. He served in this capacity until the school closed its doors in 1977. He returned to the classroom at Heritage High School in 1977, where he served for a brief stint as a history instructor. In 1982, Bob became Blount County's seventh County Executive. During his tenure as County Executive (now County Mayor) such major corporations as Denzo and Rubbermaid opened facilities in Blount County, creating thousands of jobs for Blount County. Between them, Bob and Lula Davis touched numerous families in this area. He was an active member at First Baptist Church, Maryville where Bob served as Chairman of the Deacons and Sunday School teacher. He was involved in numerous philanthropic causes in Blount County. The family would like to thank his caregivers, as well as the staff at Colonial Hills Nursing Home, for making Bob's final days peaceful ones. God Bless you. The family is receiving friends from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Smith Trinity Chapel on Thursday, August 11, 2011. Bob's celebration of life and memorial service will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 12, 2011 at First Baptist Church, Maryville. Graveside service will follow with military honors at Grandview Cemetery. Dr. Clarence Sexton, pastor at Temple Hills Baptist Church, will be officiating. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the Wounded Warriors, which benefits military families, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675-8517, or to a charity of your choice. II Timothy 4:7 'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.' Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Robert J. Davis please visit our Sympathy Store.