A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 22, at noon at St. Michael Church in Murrells Inlet, S.C., for Deacon Robert “Bob” Thomas Davis of Myrtle Beach, S.C., who died on May 9 surrounded by his family. He was 79.
Ordained in 1995 to the permanent diaconate of the Paterson Diocese, N.J., Deacon Davis faithfully served Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Swartswood, N.J. He enjoyed teaching and helping people, and was known for his deep homilies. He also enjoyed performing baptisms and weddings.
Born and raised in New Rochelle, N.Y., Deacon Davis attended the former Holy Family School there.
Deacon Davis served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Heidelberg, Germany. There, he joined a wonderful Catholic group that became important throughout his life because of the many friends he made.
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In the field of education, Deacon Davis taught history at Malcolm X Shabazz High School in Newark, N.J., for more than 20 years before transitioning to serve as social studies education director for the City of Newark.
In addition, Deacon Davis worked at several colleges as a professor, student-teaching supervisor, and mentor. He helped hundreds of future teachers develop the skills and empathy needed to mold future generations. One of the history teachers he helped was his own daughter, Katie.
Deacon David ran several times for the N.J. State Assembly. He taught his children the value of serving the community, and his legacy continues through his daughters, who are active in politics and non-profit work.
After moving to Myrtle Beach, S.C., Deacon Davis served St. Michael Parish in Murrells Inlet. He treasured time with his family, friends, and church community above all.
Deacon Davis was preceded in death by his parents, John (Jack) T. Davis and Frances K. Parker; his brother, John Davis; and his wife of 55 years, Karen A. Davis.
He is survived by his daughters, Katie Landsman (David) of Acworth, Ga., and Megan Davis of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; grandchildren, John Patrick Landsman, Matthew Landsman, and Noah Landsman; siblings, Thomas Davis, Edward Davis, Virginia Davis-DiCecco and Kevin Davis; and many nieces and nephews.
