Richard E. Davis

Richard E. Davis, 84, formerly of Homer, passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2017 in the Crown Center Nursing Facility, Cortland, following a period of declining health.

A lifelong area resident, he was born July 10, 1933, the son of the late Lester and Mabel Everett Davis.

Rich spent his career in the insurance business. He joined his father at the Lester Davis Agency in 1955, taking ownership of the business in 1962, where he grew the business until 1997 when he retired. The business still operates today as Benson Davis Insurance.

He was a lifelong and active member of the former Homer Baptist Church (Grace Christian Fellowship).

Rich was a man of many talents and interests; he loved to hunt and fish, tying many of his own fly fishing flies. He enjoyed reading and playing the piano, and enjoyed listening to all varieties of toe-tapping music, including polka.  Rich was most proud of having built his own log cabin in the woods on his property in Scott, where he and his wife Jan resided for several years. When not working, Rich maintained an active life - working in the vegetable garden, on some project, or walking in his beloved woods.

He was also an accomplished author, publishing three books, most notably "Storytellers" and "Storytellers II". His books were discussions on black powder and bow hunting, native brook trout fishing, using calls in hunting, backpack camping and hiking, learning to fly a plane, mountain climbing, historical re-enactments, and much more.

Surviving are two daughters, Sally Davis of Berkshire and Peggy (Donald) Morse of Arcade; sister, Joy Niswender of Little York; niece, Terri (Scott) Brown; nephews, Michael (Joan) Niswender; Robert Niswender; and grand-niece, Wendy Niswender. Also, step-daughters, Carole Ruyts of Homer and Becci Ruyts of Michigan.

Rich was predeceased by his wife, Janice S. Davis in 2013 and his sister, Louise Davis. Additionally, predeceased by first wife Joan Robinson in 2008.

The family would like to express a special and heartfelt thanks to all the kind and generous people of Homer and surrounding areas who were Rich's community. Whether it was helping him to his truck, listening to his stories, sharing a laugh, or helping him home when he was lost in the night, your friendship and caring toward Rich will always be cherished. A special thanks also to Rich's caregivers at both Crown Park Nursing and Walden Place. 

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday January 3, 2018 at the Donald L. Barber Funeral Home, 5016 US Route 11, Homer, with Rev. Allan Ferguson officiating.

Memorial contributions in Mr. Davis' name may be directed to the charity of one's choice.

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