Donald Jackson Davis, 85, died on Feb. 10, 2025, in Lampasas.
Don was born on Sept. 17, 1939, on the Davis Ranch to W. Forrest Davis and C. Roberteen Kendrick Davis.
He grew up with a strong sense of family and community. Don was active in the FFA where he showed sheep and steers.
He graduated from Briggs High School in 1957 and attended John Tarleton College in Stephenville on a basketball scholarship.
His love for the outdoors led him to a long career with Texas Parks and Wildlife, where he worked as a game biologist for 33 years.
Shortly after beginning his career, Don was drafted to serve his country in the U.S. Army. Stationed at Fort Hood, he completed his service before returning to his position at Texas Parks and Wildlife, where he continued his work preserving the natural beauty of Texas.
Shortly after high school, he started dating his best friend and love of his life, Bonnie Ferguson. They dated for seven years before marrying on Aug. 21, 1964 at Lampasas Primitive Baptist Church. Don wanted to make sure he returned home from his military service and had a good job to support his new bride. They were married for over 60 years.
Two years after they married, they welcomed a little girl who kept both of them busy with stock shows and play days. Don volunteered for years and served on the board of directors for the Williamson County Livestock Association.
He also served for 32 years on the Board of Directors for the Davis Cemetery Association.
Don’s greatest joy in life was his family. He cherished his wife, Bonnie Davis; daughter, Iva Davis Nuckles and husband Steve; granddaughter, Dakota Davis; and greatgranddaughter, Rilee Davis.
Don also had a deep love for ranching. He found peace in watching over his cattle, appreciating the simple beauty of the land he called home.
His faith also was an important part of his life, and he was a member of Florence Primitive Baptist Church.
Don was preceded in death by his parents and uncle, J. Houston Davis, whom he was very close to.
A funeral service will be held Feb. 17 at 2 p.m. at Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel in Lampasas. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service.
After the funeral, Don will be laid to rest beside his parents at Davis Cemetery near Watson.
Memorial donations may be made through his daughter to the Davis Cemetery Association.
