MCPO Gerald D. Davis, US Navy (Ret.), 90, of Columbia, died on Sunday, September 1, 2024. Born on May 7, 1934, in Donalds, SC, he was the son of the late Ira Lee Davis and Nora Elizabeth Ashley Davis. MCPO Davis honorably served his country for 25 years in the US Navy. Following his military career, MCPO Davis was an owner/operator of a Chick-Fil-A franchise for 24 years and acted as a consultant for Chick-Fil-A for 10 years. He was a member of Crescent Hill Baptist Church where he served for many years as a Deacon and Sunday school teacher. MCPO Davis was a member of the Mid Carolina Club and won many awards for his excellent play on the golf course. He was affectionately known in the community as the "Candyman"; sharing tea candy and Werther's Original to most everyone he encountered.

Survivors include his devoted wife of 70 years, Barbara S. Davis; children, Gerald D. Davis, Jr. (Lois) of Summerville, SC, Cheryl Jacobs (Carlton Ray) of Archdale, NC, Brenda D. Knight (special friend Henry Guidone) of Greenville, SC, and Gary D. Davis of Columbia. He also leaves behind his sister, Tina Allen (Jim), 11 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, two nephews, and two nieces. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Billy L. Davis, John R. Davis, Donnie C. Davis, and Jackie F. Davis.

The funeral service for MCPO Davis will be held at 12:30 o'clock, Wednesday, September 11th at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, SC. Burial with full military honors will follow at 2 o'clock at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Rd., Columbia, SC.

The family will receive guests prior to the service at 11:30 o'clock at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Crescent Hill Baptist Church, 2659 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29204 or the charity of one's choice.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.