Everyday Living

In Memory Of My Daddy – Simple + Southern Sunday No. 542

~ Everyday Living, Faith, Family, Simple + Southern Sunday

“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭1‬ ‭(ESV‬‬)

I have often shared my sweet Daddy with you, our dear readers. I think many of you felt like you knew him through his life stories which I’ve passed along. My precious Daddy passed away peacefully on March 26th (our Emma’s birthday) surrounded by his family.

Coy Davis was born October 6, 1930 during the depths of the Great Depression. The depression had an effect on almost everyone in Daddy’s world and those years molded people for a lifetime. That may have been part of the reason Daddy was always content and loved simple things. The main reason however, was his response to the truths of scripture, as he chose to live by those principles. The words of Paul to the Philippians sum up the way Daddy lived life and loved life… “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
(Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭11‬-‭13)

Daddy grew up in St. Clair County, Alabama. After graduating from Pell City High School in 1948, he was offered a basketball scholarship from Auburn University, but chose to play professional baseball instead, signing with the Cleveland Indians Organization. His baseball career abruptly ended when he was drafted into the army!

He entered the military during the Korean War, was seriously wounded by a land mine, and was later awarded a Purple Heart and two Bronze Stars. Daddy was a part of a survey team that operated ahead of the front lines. The surveyors were a special group that had great skills, being selected for the mission based on Army test scores.

Upon coming home, top priority was seeing that beautiful dark-eyed girl he had briefly met at a restaurant where she worked as cashier. God’s providence is always at work as Daddy was elected to pay for the group’s final meal at home, as the future soldiers were departing that day. Handwritten letters and long waits were the only way to get to know each other in those days. After returning home in October, Daddy and Mother were married December 24, 1952. My brother and I grew up in a Christian home, bathed in love, calm, security, and contentment, under the care of the two finest parents anyone could ever have. Daddy and Mother shared 54 wonderful, loving years together. Daddy retired from the U.S. Postal System with 35 years of service, where he received a special award for having never been late for work! Amazingly, they were able to spend so much sweet, quality time together, as Daddy had been retired 18 years when Mother suddenly passed away in 2007.

Daddy was known affectionately as Pawpaw by his 3 grandchildren. Pawpaw may have offered a little advice to Seth on his wedding day, but the real impact on him as a man was a Pawpaw that lived a consistent, unwavering, life of character and steadfastness before him! Seth, and cousins Joel and Hannah were blessed to grow up near him and Mother, spending countless hours in their loving home!
    

Pawpaw had 9 great-grandchildren, 2 girls and 7 boys. EM, EK, and WL, along with their parents, had pizza night weekly with Daddy, a tradition started by their daddy 18 years ago. They were all being clowns this particular evening, and Pawpaw loved every second of it! This was March 13, the last pizza party.

We were so blessed that Daddy had the opportunity to see Daniel and hold him. Without a doubt, this little one will hear countless stories about his Pawpaw. And, we are fortunate to live in a time when photos are so much a part of every day life. The influence of a man like my Daddy spans generations!

 Celebrating my 71st birthday last October with Daddy was filled with precious moments, a time for which I’m more grateful now than ever. To have him in my life for over 71 years was truly one of heaven’s blessings!

Christian…Loving…Kind…Gentle…Humble…Compassionate…Consistent…Gracious…Friendly…Witty…Patient…Faithful…Dependable…Honest…Patriotic…Husband…Father…Grandfather…Great-grandfather…Genuine…just a small reflection in a humble attempt to describe the wonderful man I call Daddy.

My heart is broken, he was the best Daddy a girl could have. I know he is present with the Lord, and I rejoice in that promise, knowing too, that my Mother is also in the eternal presence of the Heavenly Father!

I wish to thank all of you for prayers, messages, emails, flowers, gifts, and cards. Your love and support has been a source of encouragement and comfort!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.”
‭‭Numbers‬ ‭6‬:‭24‬-‭26‬ ‭(ESV‬‬)Linking with:
 Pieced Pastimes,  Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
 Life and Linda

Comments

  1. He gave you a life of love and an example of how to live. Your knowing he is with the Lord is a blessing. Prayers for God’s comfort to your family

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  3. Good morning Pam, What a wonderful legacy and example of love as father, grandfather and husband your dad left behind. So glad he got to see sweet baby Daniel and he passed away peacefully. I know your heart is broken but comforted in knowing he is at peace in the loving arms of the Heavenly Father. Thinking of you and your family with love.

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  4. Prayers for peace and comfort for your daddy’s passing. What a blessing to have had him in your life. His faithful witness will count for generations. I’m so sorry for your loss.

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  5. Dearest Pam, I continue to keep you and the family in my prayers. There will always be a hole in your heart, but I know all the wonderful memories will give you great comfort. Knowing he has entered the kingdom of Heaven is such a blessing. Your precious daddy and mama sure did raise a special daughter.

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  6. What a God honoring life your sweet daddy lived. To have had him for all 71 years of your life is a wonderful gift from our Heavenly Father. Tears filled my eyes as I read your Beautiful tribute. Tears of joy for a man for all men.

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  7. Praying the Lord wraps you tightly in his embrace as you remember your sweet daddy. I so enjoyed hearing your stories about him on your blog. He was a wonderful father and grandfather.

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  9. Pam I am so sorry for your loss. Losing your Daddy is the hardest thing. Thank you for sharing your father with your readers all these years. We are blessed to have “known” him. May you find peace and comfort from your wonderful memories.

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  10. Oh Pam, I was so sad when I saw the title of this post, aching for your own sorrow. You’ve shared so many wonderful memories of your Daddy in the past, and added to them so beautifully here. I’m grateful he got to know you as an adult and your beautiful children and his great grands, too. I’m sure he made a wonderful lasting impression. He had an amazing life and it’s pretty clear he was equally so to have a daughter such as you. I send many wishes for peace and healing during your grieving journey. It’s a long, winding path. I’m glad you have to loving support of your family as you move gently forward. Biggest hugs.

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  11. Dearest Pam and Butch
    , It was my privilege to know and love both your Dad and Mother. What precious Godly saints they both are! Hooray for them–they both finished so well!! My love and prayers are with you all. Judy

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  13. Tears filled my eyes reading this wonderful tribute. So many parallels to my experience with a wonderful Mom and Dad. My prayers are with you.

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  14. Pam, What a wonderful tribute to your Daddy. We’re so honored to have been introduced to him through your blog. We hope the sweet memories you have will sustain you during this time of grief. It’s so difficult to lose a loved one, no matter their age. Our parents are special to us if we’re lucky enough to have wonderful parents. You were definitely lucky as was I. While we know as Christians that heaven is the final resting place, we still miss them and our hearts are still broken while here on earth. We will be reunited again in the future as Christians. May God comfort you during this transitional time. We know without a doubt that your Daddy was a great example of a Christian man. We’re sorry your heart is broken and we’re praying for you. Clara❤️

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  15. What a beautiful life your dad had while here on Earth. It was so sweet to read his story this morning. He was truly blessed by the family around him. Lifting all of you in prayer. May your beautiful memories of him give you comfort as your heart breaks he is no longer with all of you. Hugs. Kris

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  17. Dearest Pam, this morning’s post is such a beautiful tribute to your daddy. Thank you for sharing his story with us on your blog. You were truly blessed with wonderful parents who in turn raised a kind, caring, gracious, and loving daughter. I know your heart is broken, but I hope you will find comfort in your precious memories and knowing he is in heaven with your dear mother. I will continue to keep you in my prayers, dear friend. Sending love and hugs your way.❤️

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  18. “All which I took from thee, I did but take not for thy harms,
    but just that thou might seek it in My arms.
    All which thy child’s mistake fancies as lost,
    I have stored for thee in Heaven.” Home……

    A blessed assurance that one day our loved ones will be fully
    restored to us, more glorious a union than ever known here.
    Prayers for your comfort and healing, dear ones.

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  19. Pam, so sorry to hear about the loss of your daddy. May all the great memories comfort you and your family during this difficult time. Prayers for your healing .🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

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  20. I’m so sorry for your loss but filled with a beautiful warmth hearing that your father lived such a meaningful and purposeful life. What a great example your entire family is and I hope those who read this will be inspired to live a life worthy of praise and heavenly rewards.

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  21. What a blessing to have had such a fine man for your Daddy. I’m so sorry for your great loss. His legacy is in the hearts of all your family. What a wonderful example for them!

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  22. Good Morning Butch and Pam,
    What a beautiful tribute you shared with us today of your sweet Daddy. What a legacy he leaves for everyone who knew him. I pray that all the sweet memories of your Daddy brings you comfort. Your Mom and Daddy are in each other’s arms again. Sending love and prayers for all of you.

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  23. Pam, my eyes are flooded with tears as I read this beautiful tribute to your sweet daddy. My parents, as yours, lived the trauma of the Great Depression, and it left indelible experiences that gave them perspective of living life with gratitude. We were fortunate children to be raised with such wisdom. I love seeing these beautiful photos and reading about your dad. I love that he was a redhead! I know it is heart breaking to loose your sweet daddy. Even after our parents have lived long, full lives, saying the final goodbye is not an easy time. Thinking of you with love and compassion, Pam.

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  25. Dear Pam and Butch,
    My heart and tears were flooded when I read this post. You have all been so heavy in my heart and mind; particularly in the last 3 days and I sensed this might be the case, but hesitated reaching out.
    I’m so sorry for your earthly loss of your Daddy. Through your beautiful life, stories, his pictures, and memories, all of us have grown to love him. But I can’t imagine as a daughter how you feel. I do feel your joy over the reunion with his Heavenly Father and your Mother. How blessed for your son and grands to have these special times with Paw Paw.
    Right now I’ll be lifting you all continuously during this time of grieving. And rest, too.
    Pam, there are very few men left like your Dad (RM being one–and my Dad). These legacies, times of service during hard times, leaning on faith and family, are what make him, you, and all of you so special.
    My love and prayers are with you all. Love, Karla

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    • Karla, you are correct, there are few men left like the ones we have had. Daddy’s mind was still sharp. I fed him the last thing he ate about 12 hours before he passed away and he said it was so good…a few bites of watermelon! I am missing him, I was there almost every day since my Mother passed away 18 years ago. He was a joy and I miss him terribly ❤️
      Pam

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  26. Sweet Pam and dear Butch. Thank you for sharing a special part of your life. What a legacy your mother and father left by raising you in a Christian home that not only believed the Word…they ‘walked the talk’ which left an indelible mark on any and all who came into contact with them. Praise God Seth and his family carried on the “Pizza Tradition” which not only benefited them but your Daddy too. So many of the younger ones these days forget to remember those who have gone before and the many valuable lessons which can be learned by their experiences. I can only imagine the “talks” your grands had with your Daddy. I believe you can certainly agree that your Daddy could say (as the Apostle Paul said)
    “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
    Rejoice for you will all be together again in Heaven. It isn’t over, Eternity has just begun.
    Love and prayers my dear friends.

    Reply

    • Kari, Praise God that eternity awaits for all believers…what a day that will be. Seth loved his Pawpaw and his children were always happy to go eat pizza with Pawpaw. Daddy did fight the good fight and kept the faith❤️
      Pam

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  27. Thank you for the sweet stories of your sweet daddy and wonderful mother via your blog, I’ve so enjoyed them. The picture of your daddy as a boy with his red hair…it could have been something Norman Rockwell might have chosen to paint! I’m sure that such a beloved man will be greatly missed, especially by you, and I am so sorry for your loss and pray that you will know His comfort.
    The wonderful family photos of your traditions shared with us have filled my heart so many times! My you find joy in the stories and memories now. 🤗

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    • Sue, I had never thought that my Daddy’s photo as a boy might have been a Norman Rockwell painting. That is a charming thought. I do feel the comfort of the Lord. Thank you for your prayers ❤️
      Pam

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  28. May the peace of God that passeth all understanding be with you and your family. What a legacy your Dad left. It sounds like he gave up a career playing baseball to serve his country. It is so difficult to give up someone you love so much. It is even harder when they are both gone but there is a celebration in Heaven. May God’s love surround you and give you peace. I love you sweet friend-

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  29. Oh my dearest Pam, with tears in my eyes I loved reading about your beautiful man, you called Daddy. Thank you for sharing about this wonderful, godly man. I did get to know him through your blog, and I learned more about him today. We never ever get over losing our loved ones, but we are forever thankful for them and know we will meet them again. God bless you and your family and cherish those loving memories.

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  30. Such. Beautiful words and a very moving tribute to your Daddy. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

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  31. I’m so, so sorry to hear of your Daddy’s passing. Please know you are on my heart and in my prayers. May the Lord be with you and your sweet family during this time of sorrow. Much Light, Sharon

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  32. I have followed your blog for many years. I, too, feel like I knew your dad personally. I’m so sorry to hear that he has passed away. Prayers and hugs coming your way.
    Kay Hess Grogg

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  33. Thank you so much for sharing these pictures and beautiful testimony of your dear father.
    He is an inspiration! God bless and comfort you and your family!

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  34. I thought God may have called your Daddy home sweet friend. I have been keeping you all in constant prayer knowing that only God’s love & grace can comfort you in your heartwrenching time of grief.

    May you know His presence as never before & may you feel His peace & serenity as you traverse this time of great sadness Pam. Knowing that your Daddy & Mum are together in the presence of God happy & enveloped in His pure essence of peace & joy.
    Sending hugs & blessings to you, Jennifer 💕

    Reply

    • Thank you, Jennifer. I know your dear Dad passed away last year if I remember correctly. Your sweet comments warm my heart. “The Lord is near to the broken-hearted…” He is ever present! Thank you, sweet friend❤️
      Pam

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  35. I am sorry to hear of your father’s passing. There is comfort in knowing he is in Heaven. My parents are also gone but I am doubtful I will ever see them again. Do you think when I enter Heaven there will be no memory of my lost family members?

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    • Joellyn, thank you for your sweet comments.

      Scripture says in the book of Revelation “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.””
      ‭‭Revelation‬ ‭21‬:‭4‬ ‭(ESV‬‬)

      I will be praying for you, this must be a heavy burden on your heart.

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  37. Oh, Pam! Tears are literally rolling down my cheeks. Of course, I never met your dear daddy, but he was such a source of comfort to me each time you would write about him. It goes to show how we will never really know how much our lives are impacting others or who may be drawing comfort from observing our faithful life—even from a distance. Losing that precious generation is so deeply saddening. Your daddy personified that generation to me. You can see in his eyes in the photos that his disposition was so sweet and humble. I know firsthand how much you will miss him. What a Divine give that you got to keep him in your life for 71 years! That is very rare. It is sad to think about that last pizza party. He will be so sorely missed, and I just pray that God will wrap His loving arms around you and hold you extra close as you grieve. You have my deepest sympathy.

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  38. This is a beautiful tribute to the fine man that was your Daddy!
    How special his mind was still sharp all his life. That is a huge blessing.
    What a wonderful testimony his life was to his family, friends and coworkers.
    Pam, This written tribute will help your grandchildren remember him and all his special qualities.
    I know that the Lord welcomed him to heaven with the words, well done good and faithful servant.I will continue to pray for all your family as you miss him. I care very much.

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  39. Pam and Butch, my heart is broken as well at the loss of Paw Paw, Coke Man, Cokee, all names your precious dad has had through the years. Your tribute to him is so meaningful. It was so special to be with all of you to honor Coke Man (my most common name for him!) at his service. Although I know you rejoice in his home going, the loss of such a Godly father in your daily lives is significant. You and Mike have cared for him daily, and now that you will no longer be with him daily, your loss will be significant. I remember Mike telling me when my mother died that the grief would come in waves, and I found that to be so true. As your waves of grief come, know that those who love all of you are keeping you in our hearts and prayers. Love to you all.

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  40. My dearest friend…My deepest condolences…I wish I could give you a big hug just now… When my father went to God you helped me so much with your encouragement and faith. Sending prayers.
    “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?'”
    John 11:25-26

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  41. Pam you were truly blessed with two wonderful parents. You, your brother and families are in my thoughts prayers. Bless you

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  42. I think we all learned to love and admire your sweet dad through your eyes and the beautiful way you shared his essence. He is home now and has left you all with best of memories.

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