Varnell "Val" Joseph Davis Jr.

Varnell "Val" Joseph Davis Jr., 93, of Savannah, transitioned on Monday, August 14, 2023 at Memorial Health after a short illness.

Val was born on August 14, 1930 in Savannah, GA to Varnell Joseph Davis Sr. and Charlotte Walker-Davis. He is a graduate of Beach High School and attended several Catholic Schools during his formative years. After graduating, he joined the United States Army where he served in the Korean War. After receiving an honorable discharge, he joined the United States Air Force. While there he exercised his musical talent, playing drums for military ceremonies and events. He played for several presidents; among them were John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson and Jimmy Carter. He retired from the Air Force as Staff Sergeant in 1968 after a combined total of 21 years of military service.

After a successful career, he segwayed into beverage distribution, as a driver for 20 years, but continued his love for music. Val set himself apart as an accomplished & skilled musician; he was proficient on drums, bass and was a beautiful vocalist. He carved himself a niche and was among the most sought-after musicians. He enhanced the performances of many local & regional jazz bands and was a coveted favorite.

During this time, Val met & married the love of his life, Ann M. Smith, on March 9, 1974 in Savannah. He lovingly referred to Ann as "his Commanding Officer" for their almost 50-year-long marriage. Together, they made a beautiful melody. They traveled the world and enjoyed a life filled with singing and dancing at several events and “gigs.” One highlight in particular is when Val played in the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta.

In his later years, Val enjoyed spending time with his family to whom he was affectionately known as "Gramps", "PaPa", "Granddaddy" or “Uncle Val.” He was there for his children; attending almost every holiday & birthday celebration, graduation and wedding. Nothing made him more proud than witnessing the happiness and success of his family.

In addition to his love for music and family, he was an avid reader and lifelong learner, always conscious of global events and local affairs.

He was a strong man of faith, who loved God & his church. He was born and raised in the Catholic Church. He was a member of Blessed Sacrament, where he was the recipient of the Garland Award, for his dedication a Greeter, choir member and soloist for many weddings, services, and funerals. Val was also a proud Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Val was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Tommy Carter, Orell Davis, Helen Davis Gray, and Prince Johnson.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife, Ann Davis; daughters, Anita Gerido (Michael) and Barbara Carter; grandchildren, Nicole, Rona, Dominiq, Elizabeth, Samuel (Kesha), and Julius (Kimberly); 11 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Eloise Cleveland; and a host of nieces and nephews.

The Rosary will be held at 6 o'clock Sunday evening, August 20, 2023, at Gamble Funeral Service - 410 Stephenson Avenue with the family receiving friends after the Rosary until 8 o'clock.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 o'clock Monday morning, August 21, 2023, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church conducted by Father David Koetter. Interment will follow at Beaufort National Cemetery at 1 pm. The family will receive visitors at 2:30 o’clock in the campus cafeteria at St. John Baptist Church at 2415 DeRenne Ave.

Memorial contributions can be sent to 111 Michael Court, Savannah, Georgia 31405.