Burr Davis, born January 4, 1937, in Jacksonville, Texas, left his earthly life March 27, 2020, to begin his everlasting life in heaven. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carolyn Lewis Davis, son, Joey Davis (wife Ryn) and brother, Oddist Earl “Sneak” Davis of Houston. Preceded in death by his mother, Ora Belle Davis, father, William Davis; brothers Marvin, Hershall, W.J.; and sister, Katheryn Ashley. Burr, a 1955 graduate of Jacksonville High School, was recently inducted into the J.H.S. Football Hall of Fame. He attended the University of Houston,where he played football for the Cougars. As an outstanding player and key starter in the East West Shrine Game, Burr was inducted into the University of Houston’s Football Hall of Fame. After graduation, he signed with the Canadian Football League’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers,winning the Grey Cup Championship. Burr’s love and devotion to Jesus Christ was evident throughout his life. When his father-in-law, J.C. Lewis of Jacksonville, passed away at age 42 in 1960, Burr unselfishly gave up his football career to move back home to Jacksonville to help his family in many ways and assumed the role as head of Lewis Awning and Upholstery. Eventually, God opened doors for Burr to return to the game he loved, and he coached football at St. Thomas High School in Houston, leading the Eagles to win the 1964 State Championship. After leaving his beloved St. Thomas High School, he coached at Klein High School in Klein, Texas, for several years before retiring. Burr remained close with his players throughout his life. In recent months, while in a Woodland nursing home with Alzheimers, many of his former players have been so kind and still dedicated to “Coach” with their loving support and visits. They shared the story of how Burr would always say, “Let’s gather under the trees” and of how when they gathered, he taught them much more than “blockin’ and tacklin’.” “In the words of one former player and friend: “Coach Davis not only taught us how to live, but also how to die.” Burr believed in smiling, sharing joy, sharing love, sharing Christ and remaining positive no matter what. If ever asked how he was doing, despite any circumstance and even recently while sick, he would always answer, “great” and to his family he will always remain the same, great! In his last few years he found comfort and joy in a favorite poem by A.M. Overton. He Maketh No Mistake My father’s way may twist and turn My heart may throb and ache, But in my soul I’m glad to know He maketh no mistake Tho’ night be dark and it may seem That day will never break, I’ll pin my faith, my all in Him He maketh no mistake… A Memorial Service is pending in Houston, due to the current health crisis.
In Memoriam