Ronald William Davis

Ronald William Davis, 91, of Easley, SC, beloved husband of Catherine Baum Davis, passed peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, June 28, 2025. Born in Amsterdam, NY, to the late Isaac Davis and the late Alma Brown Davis.

In 1988, Ron made the decision to move his family from Ballston Spa, NY to Simpsonville, SC when he moved the Large Gas Turbine Division of General Electric from Schenectady, NY to Greenville, SC, between 1984 and 1988. Ron enjoyed a long and rewarding 34 year engineering career at General Electric. Ron even met Cathy, his “Earth Angel,” in a love at first sight encounter on an elevator at GE.

Ron served proudly in the United States Army, winning the most outstanding solider award at Fort Hood, and making significant contributions as part of the Manhattan Project. He distinguished himself as one of two atomic soldiers who lived beyond the age of 65, earning the honor of being the last surviving atomic soldier. His commitment to service extended into civilian life, where he was an active member of the American Legion. He was a member of Post 102, before further contributing to Post 52, where the camaraderie of service veterans enveloped him.

Ron was an avid fan of football and baseball, and coached both in youth sports for many years.

Ron was a previous active member of Mauldin United Methodist Church for almost 40 years. When he and his wife moved to Easley in 2020, they became active members of St. Andrew Methodist Church.

In all aspects of his life, Ron remained true to himself, never cutting corners and always known for his loving and steady presence. His playful spirit often revealed itself through his mischief as a prankster, ensuring that laughter was woven into the fabric of his family's narrative. It is no wonder that his grandchildren fondly called him "Pappy," as he reveled in their lives, engaging in everything from coloring sessions and football and baseball events to teaching them how to slide into base—a lesson in both the joy of play and the importance of embracing life fully.

As a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Ron’s heart overflowed with love and a gentle strength that illuminated the lives of those around him. He possessed a unique ability to weave magic into the mundane; he would often serenade his beloved wife with the song "Earth Angel,” a melody that transformed into their cherished song, echoing the depth of their bond. Their dances together were not just steps on a floor; they were a celebration of a love that flourished over decades, and was pure joy for their family to share.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Leslie-Ann Early.

Ron is survived by his wife of 58 years, Cathy; son, Aaron Davis (Stacy); grandchildren, Jenna Johns, Jared Davis (Lyndsay), Cayla Early, Sheldon Early (Hannah), and Caitlin Panepinto (Matt); 11 great-grandchildren; and sisters, Dolores Rose and Marilyn Lepper.

The family will receive friends on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 1:00 PM until 1:45 PM at St. Andrew Methodist Church in Easley, SC. His celebration of life will follow at 2:00 PM. A private inurnment will be held in M.J. Dolly Cooper Veterans Cemetery at a later date.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.