Cecil E. Davis, Jr.

Cecil E. “Buddy” Davis, Jr., 66, of Galesburg, Illinois, died unexpectedly at home on January 13, 2025.

Buddy was born February 18, 1958, in Galesburg, the son of Cecil E. and Dorothy Marilyn (Moody) Davis, Sr. After graduating from high school, Buddy served in the US Army and was honorably discharged on January 11, 1983. He went on to work as a jailer for the Knox County Sheriff’s Department for 14 years. He went on to work as a signal maintainer at BNSF for five years, then working for TZPR as a signal maintainer for three years and returned to the Knox County Sheriff's Department for his remaining years until he retired in 2008. Not one to be able to sit still Buddy continued working as a handyman working for Peterson Health Care and Seminary Manor. He was a jack of all trades.

Buddy never met a stranger and knew everyone. He loved having a good conversation. Going for a ride on his motorcycle was one of his many passions. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandkids.

Buddy is survived by his son, Craig (Elizabeth) Davis of Galesburg; six grandchildren, Chelsea Davis, Kori Roberts, Colten Sharpe, Carleigh Davis, Embry Sharpe, and Cecil Davis; one brother, K.D. (Gail) Davis DePere, Wisconsin; and his sister-in-law, Sherry Davis of Galesburg. Buddy is also survived by four nieces, Heather (Andrew) O’Daniel, Emily (Tim) Hinch, Amy (Josh) Siefker, and Sarah (Andrew) Wingo; two nephews, Kenny Dale Davis and Randy (Mollica) Davis; six great nieces; and eight great nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Sherryl Beard; and one brother, SFC Rodney E. Davis.

A celebration of life for Buddy will be held Monday, January 20, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Thomas Legacy Center at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be directed to Sams Stray Animal Midway Hospital (http://www.samsrescue.org/).