Long Island…….Esther "Sonny" Leathen Davis, Jr. age 71 of Long Island passed away Thursday, February 11, 2016 at his residence.
Born July 11, 1944 in Straightstone he was a son of Margaret Tucker Davis of Straightstone and the late Esther L. Davis, Sr. He was also predeceased by his father-in-law, William H. Saunders and his mother-in-law, Annie R. Saunders.
He was a member and former Deacon of Edge Hill Baptist Church. Sonny was a retired automobile mechanic and employee of Abbott Laboratories. He enjoyed life, always having a kind word for everyone. He loved to brighten people's day with a joke in addition to being well known and respected for his honesty and work ethic. He provided for his family well, making sure they never wanted for anything. He enjoyed movies, had a passion for Chevrolet automobiles, and loved helping people. He even ventured out many nights to help stranded motorist. He will be missed greatly by his family and friends.
In addition to his mother he is survived by his wife of 51 years, Janice Saunders Davis of the residence; two sons, Tim W. Davis and his wife, Lucinda Davis of Hurt and Brian K. Davis and his wife, Yong of Altavista; one beloved grandson, James I. Davis of Altavista; one brother, Barry Davis and a his special friend, Faye of Gretna; two sisters, C. Jean Atkinson and her husband Alvin of Hurt and Patsy Hutcherson and her husband, Kenneth of Straightstone; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be conducted 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 13, 2016 at Colbert-Moran Chapel by Rev. R.G. Rowland, Rev. Chris Brooks and Pastor Joe Cornell. Burial will follow in Greenfield Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1 to 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 13, 2016 at Colbert-Moran Funeral Home and other times will be at the residence.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 26 Broadway, 14th Floor, New York, NY 10004 or go to JDRF.org.
Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.