Dean was born November 26, 1938, in Decatur, Illinois, the son of August and Naomi (Fisher) Davis. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Independence. Dean retired from N&S Railroad and worked for many years as a carpet installer. Dean was an active member of New Hope Interdenominational Church in Calico Rock, Arkansas. He was an Assistant Fire Chief of the Ruthie Mountain Volunteer Fire Department in Mt. Olive, Arkansas.

"Dizzy" Dean was one of a kind. He lived life to the fullest and loved to laugh. He enjoyed playing practical jokes, music, dancing, bowling, fishing and people. Dean was always the first to help anyone whenever he could. He was proud that he taught several of his sons to lay carpet and make a living from that. Dean laughed and made others laugh. His happy, broad smile will be greatly missed.

Dean married his soul mate and the love of his life, Darlene Jean (Liston/Eckart) on April 26, 1980, in Decatur, Illinois. She preceded him in death on October 29, 2014.

Dean leaves behind his children, Tina (Terry) Parrish, Charles Davis, Donnie (Rhonda) Davis, Sonnie (Robert) Davis, Stanley (Cassie) Davis, Mark (Marian) Eckart, David (Connie) Eckart and Donna (Scott) Harris; forty-one grandchildren, sixty-six Great-grandchildren and three great-great- grandchildren; three brothers, Butch (Joyce) Davis, Steve Brazle, Mike Brazle; four sisters, Beverly Whinery, Sandra Enlow, Barbara Hodges and Pam (Rick) Nanna.

Dean was reunited in heaven with his parents, wife, brothers, Dale Davis, Stanley Davis and Dennis Brazle; and two children, Donald Eckart and Mary Ann Sheets.

The family of Lawrence Davis would like to extend a special thank you to Mason Point and the St. Mary's ER, ICU, 4th and 7th nursing staff for exceptional care and compassion during this difficult transition. And a very, very, special thanks to Butch and Joyce Davis for opening up their home and hearts; taking care of not only Dean but also Darlene in their time of struggle; and being there through to the end of their lives on this earth.

Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery where full military rites will be conducted by the Macon Count Honor Guard. Memorials may be directed to the family or to Alzheimer's Association.

The Herald & Review - (Decatur, Illinois) - 11 DEC 2016 * E-Edition