James “Jay” Blair Davis

James “Jay” Blair Davis, 75, of Waterloo, died Sept. 26 2017, at St. Anthony’s Medical Center, St. Louis.

He was born Christmas Day of 1941, in East St. Louis, son of the late Joseph Blair and Margaret Davis (nee Mahoney).

Jay was employed for 34 years by Illinois Power/Dynegy as an outage maintenance supervisor. He retired in 2004 but continued contract work for the same company until 2010. 

Jay was a U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran serving as a crewman in a heavy attack squadron flying from aircraft carriers. He was a member of the Metzger-Crook VFW Post 6504 and St. Paul United Church of Christ.

In his earlier years he enjoyed competitive horseshoe pitching and league bowling. He was also active in his children’s athletic careers, but most rewarding for him was watching his grandchildren excel in their athletic and academic endeavors.

He continually battled prostate and bone cancer for 21 years and felt blessed that he was able to battle it so long.

Surviving are his childhood sweetheart, Carol Jean (nee Webb), whom he married Nov. 5, 1966, at the Emmanuel United Church of Christ, East St. Louis; his children, Michelle Rae (Mike) Smith and Jason Blair (Sara) Davis; four grandchildren, Michael Duane Smith, Alexandra Jean Smith, Zachary Blair Davis and Tyler Charles Davis; two sisters, Joleen Greenwood and Janet Poe; a brother, Philip (Diane) Davis; a brother-in-law, Charles (Mary) Webb; and a sister-in-law, Linda Davis. He was a dear uncle, cousin and friend to many.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Fred Davis; two brothers-in-law, Terry Poe and James Greenwood; and a niece, Tracy Lynn Poe.

Visitation and funeral services were Oct. 1-2, at Braun Family Funeral Home, Columbia, Pastor Todd Mushaney officiating. 

Interment followed at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville.

Memorials may be made to Helping Strays or BJC Siteman Cancer Center.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.braunfh.com.