William (Bill) Davis, 97, a lifelong resident of Haywood County, passed away May 12, 2026. He was the last surviving child of Wiley Vinson and Ethel James Davis. Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pauline Bishop Davis, and his nine siblings.

After dedicating 28 years to Southern Bell Telephone, Bill spent the next 47 years as a cattle farmer, a role he cherished. A devoted member of Crabtree Baptist Church, he served faithfully as a deacon and Sunday School teacher for many years.

Bill is survived by his children, Mike Davis (Karen), Sherry Raulerson (Blake), and Alan Davis (Jenee). He was a proud grandfather to Rev. Heath Davis (Shonda), Kelli Booe (Michael), Jesse Davis (Michelle), Sara Davis-Shook (Patrick), Rachel Davis, step granddaughters, Jackie Hannah and Mandy Schmershal. He was also blessed with great grandchildren, Erica Stamey (Walker), Kate Davis, Will Davis and step grandchildren, Bella Hannah, Addie Schmershal and Oliver Hannah, and one great-great grandchild, Alice Walker.

Bill’s legacy of faith, family and hard work will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A very special thank you to his wonderful caregivers, Vicky Gunter, Alma Kinsland, Amanda Tannerhill and Four Seasons Hospice.

A graveside service will be held at Crabtree Baptist Church Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to, Crabtree Baptist Church, c/o Cemetery Maintenance Fund, 480 Crabtree Church Rd. Clyde, NC 28721.

The care of Mr. Davis has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.