Curtis W. Davis passed from this life on March 18, 2011 at the age of 74 years 3 months and 3 days of age. Curt, as he was known, was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Pansy (Moreland) Davis. A 1955 graduate of John F. Hodge High School in St. James, Curt married Norma Lee on December 13, 1958. To this union two children were born: Curtis "Wayne" Davis Jr who lives near Marthasville, Mo with his wife Donna and son Curtis W. Davis III. His daughter "Tina" Luenemann lives near Springfield, IL with her husband Tom and their two sons Evan and Tommy. Curt's brother Fred E. "Butch" Davis and his wife Janet live in St. James.

Curt joined the U. S. Air Force in May 1959 and served over 27 years achieving the rank of Chief Master Sergeant (E-9), the highest enlisted grade. He retired on July 1, 1986. His assignments include Japan, San Antonio, TX, Italy, Alaska, South East Asia (SAE), West Plains, MO, St Louis, MO, West Point, NY, and Scott AFB,IL. While in Southeast Asia he flew 101 combat mission over Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) and three Air Medals. Other Decorations included two Meritorious Service Medals, three Air Force Commedation Medals, and Air Force Achievement Medal along with numerous other lesser decorations. He was also awarded the Vietnam Cross of Gallentry while assigned to Southeast Asia.

As an Air Force recruiter in West Plains, MO he was recognized as the top recruiter in the nation - no small feat for a rural recruiter. After retirement from the Air Force, Curt pursued his interest in the horticulture, designing and landscaping his numerous gardens. His gardens were on the Phelps County Garden Tour several times. He worked in the Wal-Mart Garden Center for five years. He was a Master Gardener and served as president of that organization.

Services
Curt Davis will lie in state Monday March 21, 2011 at the Jones Funeral Home in St. James from 10:00 A.M. from time of the Funeral at 11:00 A.M., Phil Cox will officiate at the service. Burial with full Military Honors will be held at the St. James Cemetery. Memorial are suggested to the Master Gardeners Club of Rolla.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James.