William Cole Davis (Bill)

William Cole Davis (Bill), 76, a resident of North Fort Myers, FL, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023 in North Fort Myers.  He was born August 26, 1946 in Jacksonville, FL, and later adopted by his parents William and Elsie Taylor Davis, now deceased. He was raised in both Jacksonville and Winter Haven, graduating from Winter Haven High Class of 1965, where he was known as Cole.

After high school, Bill enlisted in the US Marines, served three tours in Viet Nam, and received a Purple Heart.  His years in Viet Nam exposed him to the toxin Agent Orange, which caused numerous painful side effects in his later years.  After nine years, he left the Marines and a few years later joined the US Army serving as a recruiter.  He retired from the US Army in 1988.

Through the efforts of his niece, Elizabeth Ilson, his biological family was located in and around Winterset, Iowa.  Meeting his biological family at age 70 was a highlight of his life.  Another highlight was returning to visit Viet Nam in August 2022.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother Joel. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 25 years, Patricia Casey Davis (Pat) of North Fort Myers; loving daughter, Dawn Richardson (Derick) of Nixa, MO; five grandchildren, Krystle Holt (Brian), Shawna Luker (TJ), Rebecca Sanford, Matthew Sanford, and Faith Sanford; four great grandchildren, Iris-Isabella Luker, Coralynn Luker, Abigael Luker, and Easton Holt; as well as a large and loving extended family.  Bill is also survived by his deeply loved white German Shepherd, Snowflake; and two rescue cats:  Princess and Baby.

Committal Services with Military Honors will be held at 11:30 AM Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241.

Memorial Contributions in memory of William Cole Davis are suggested to The Wounded Warrior Project, PO BOX 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.