Thomas Tom

Thomas Emmett Davis (Tom) finished his life here on earth surrounded by his family on 10 November 2015. He had recently celebrated his 83rd birthday. He leaves a significant legacy for all those who were blessed to be a part of his life. A viewing will be held at Sundberg Olpin Mortuary at 495 S. State Street in Orem, UT on Friday, 13 November from 6-8 pm. The funeral and second viewing will be held Saturday 14 November at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints chapel located at 857 W. 800 N. in Orem, UT. The viewing will be from 9-10:30 am. The funeral will begin at 11 am. Graveside services will be held for the family at Camp Williams Cemetery in Bluffdale, UT. In lieu of flowers please feel free to donate to the trust account for Jan Davis at UCCU, 801-223-8188. Tom is preceded in death by: His parents John Carmel Davis and Sarah Leona Nicoll Davis, his brothers Harold Dean Davis and John Carmel Davis, Jr., his sisters Pearl Verma Davis LaFleur and Mary Leona Davis, and his grandson David Noble. Tom is survived by his wife Janice Nelson Davis, his children and their spouses; Feliza and Lee Roy Castor, Julie and Lamar Davis, Carol Davis, Dawn and Terry Noble, Thomas and Heather Davis, Daniel and Siona Davis, Timothy Davis, Jennifer and Jeffrey Young, Andrew Davis and Amanda Davis, 30 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren. Thomas Emmett Davis was born on 22 October 1932 in Gibson, New Mexico. He dearly loved his parents and siblings. He became his dad's constant shadow, thereby passionately learning to maintain everything around him. Another great love of his was music. Singing in the church choir with his mother was a joyous memory. He taught himself to play many stringed instruments as well as the harmonica, learning to play songs by ear. Young Tom treasured the times his family gathered to play their instruments and sing some old country western music. His unique way of playing the violin came from learning to play the cello. Tom always got a thrill when working around and with heavy equipment. High school summers were spent learning to operate the caterpillar D7 & D8 bulldozers. His love of riding motorcycles led to he and his sister being "seconds" in a movie named "The Big Circus" that stared Kirk Douglas. As a young man, Tom was drafted into the army and reported 11 February 1953 to Albuquerque, NM and went on to complete course training in the military engineering school in Fort Belvair, VA. He served 8 years including active and reserve time. The most significant duty assignment he held according to his military records was listed as a heavy equipment operator with Company A of the 16th Armored Engineering Battalion. He was known for being very patriotic and proud to have served his country, and was awarded the National Defense Medal for that service. As a child, inspired through his Mother's example, Tom involved himself in church meetings every way he could. He was forever grateful to those in the community who provided him with rides to church and encouraged his participation. This example of service and love prepared him for the choice to go on a mission. He continued to follow this example as he served others throughout his entire life. His mother showed her love and support for him as she took in laundry and brought foster children into their home to provide the money for his mission. He was called to the Central American Mission. He served mostly in Guatemala and Honduras. He quickly picked up and developed a great love of the Spanish language. He also gained a strong devotion for the people, and continued to speak the language whenever he found the opportunity. After coming home he soon returned to his mission area with two truckloads of needed supplies, such as clothing and a generator. Such was his devotion to his extended church family. Shortly after his mission Tom enrolled at Brigham Young University. Along with acing his Spanish class, he joined the New Mexico Club, and began playing with the band for the dances they held. A young woman, Jan Nelson, joined the club shortly thereafter. They fell in love, got engaged, and then were married and sealed in the Manti Temple in June of 1959. This began the journey of their new family life, which quickly became a grand adventure as they began bringing their nine children into the world. Music, fishing, mechanics, household chores, yardwork, and especially the gospel were things he wanted his children to know about. He taught by example. He is remembered for his service in his callings as a Primary teacher, High Priest Group Leader, Counselor in the branch presidency of a Spanish Branch, and Home Teacher, to name only a few of the callings in which he dutifully served. He is well known for the love, support, and appreciation he gave so freely. Throughout his life, family time was always held dear, becoming even more precious later in life as he was introduced to each new addition, be they grandchild, in-law, or new friend. Each birthday known to him was celebrated with birthday songs accompanied by him playing the guitar or the mandolin. Not only were direct family members included, but every person he met was greeted with love and a charming smile. He would say "please call me Uncle Tom" (or Tio Tom, for his many Spanish speaking friends), and would always ask if he could help them with anything. He always showed his love through his willingness to serve others. As life went on there was more time available for missionary and temple work. Countless hours were spent on genealogy, which was vitally important to him. Volunteer work in the MTC with his wife brought him many hours of sweet joy. They would work together, acting as potential investigators for new Spanish speaking missionaries. His love for those missionaries and their work was so great, that even just days before his passing he was there, helping to teach the next generation. He was dedicated to attending the temple. He lived and shared his religion. His devotion to following his Savior was easy to see. He fulfilled his Priesthood duties with honor and reverence. As we surrounded his bed, saying our farewells, many felt the peace that he knows the gospel brings. Families are Forever!

---