Ernest J. Davis, 1927-2003, Sedalia

Ernest J. "Doc" Davis, 76 of Sedalia, died Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2003, at the Sylvia G. Thompson Resident Center.

He was born Jan. 30, 1927, in Hughesville, a son of Earl and Pansy Shull Davis. On Feb. 15, 1972, in Sedalia, he was married to Viola E. Rauch, who survives of the home.

Mr. Davis was a member of First Baptist Church. He was an Army Air Force veteran of World War II. For more than 43 years, he owned and operated Leonard's "66" Truck Stop, also known as the Pit Stop. He also owned the Hill Top Service Station.

Also surviving are a stepson, Larry Arnett, of Lone Jack; two brothers, Douglas Davis and J. B. Davis, both of Sedalia; and two stepgrandchildren.

He was predeceased by three brothers, Francis, Ray and Roy Davis; and two sisters, Viola Bolch and Earlene Stevens.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at McLaughlin Funeral Chapel, with the Rev. Dr. Drew Hill officiating. Pallbearers will be Ron Ditzfeld, Wally Frank, Bill Shumake, Bud Sublett, Dr. Charles Needy and Dugan Arnett. Honorary pallbearers will be Bill McKinzie, John Shoemaker, Cord Hinken, Bob Burford, Henry Lamm, Adam Fisher, Bob Mason and Morris Brown. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Children's Therapy Center.