Archie Davis

Archie Davis, formerly of Benton Harbor, transitioned quietly to his heavenly eternal home on July 26, 2022, at Life Care Center of Michigan City, Indiana.

Archie was born January 27, 1935, to the union of the late Mary Jo Young and Racine Davis Sr., in Columbus, Georgia. He accepted Jesus Christ as Lord, and Savior at a young age.

Archie began his work career in 1957, as a fireman, after he, along with five other African American men, topped the civil service examination given for firemen. Archie scored the highest of all the applicants and was among the first African Americans to join the Benton Harbor Fire Department.

While serving as a fireman, he and other fellow firemen volunteered to repair toys for needy children and gave them to the Salvation Army for the Goodfellow baskets. He also worked part-time, serving with Robbins Brothers funeral home.

After serving respectfully as a fireman for several years, he decided it was time for a career change. He went to work for Whirlpool Corporation in LaPorte Indiana, until his retirement in 2005.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed traveling and being around family and friends, until he began to experience health challenges that prevented him from traveling.

Archie was a very sociable individual. He didn’t know any strangers. He was well respected in the community and was acknowledged as “a very kind and gentle man.” He always exhibited an exuberant, compassionate spirit; always extending grace and love…not only to his family but with his friends. He always enjoyed making people laugh.

Archie memories will always be cherished by all who knew and love him. He leaves to cherish his memory in the hearts of his children: four sons, Archie  (Erma) Davis Jr, Keith Allen Davis, Rodney Ray Davis, of Benton Harbor MI; Glenn (Bettie) Davis, of Houston, TX; two daughters: Sandra Lynn Davis, and Lori Ann Davis, of Benton Harbor, MI; one brother, Racine Davis, Jr., of Benton Harbor MI;  one sister, Julia Joseph, of Mishawaka IN;  eight grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and three great, great-grandchildren, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Archie was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Jo and Racine Davis Sr.; One brother, David Davis, Sr.; and six sisters, Doris Davis, Lucille Jackson, Louise Phillips, Jewell Holiday, Hattie Mae Henry, and Carrie Jenkins.

“For though I am far away from you, my heart is with you. And I rejoice that you are living as you should and that your faith in Christ is Strong “Colossians 2:5, NLT

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