Gaines Gail Davis, 87, of Fernandina Beach passed away Sunday, August 11, 2024 at his home.

Mr. Davis, a son of the late John Wesley and Juanita Twilla Davis was born in Dyersburg, TN but was raised in the Chicago area.

He joined the United Marine Corps after high school and served 4 years active duty and 4 years in the reserves. He retired after a 37 year career with United Airlines where he was an Aircraft Mechanic.

After retirement he and his wife, Donnia, moved to Fernandina Beach in 1999 to be near family. He was active in the community. He belonged to the Marine Corps League where he served as Chaplain and a member of the Honor Guard handling military honors in the area until the opening of Jacksonville National Cemetery. He was also a member of the American Legion.

Mr. Davis always had a story to tell and never met a stranger. He worked tirelessly for many years as part of the Toys for Tots program. He will always be remembered for taking along a large stuffed animal whenever he would around the various collection sites to pick up toys which were donated.

Mr. Davis was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Donnia, in 2020 as well as his siblings, Delores Dickensheet, Mary Atkins and Dixon Davis.

He leaves behind his daughter, Sheri Inserra and her husband, Chris; a son, David Davis and his wife, Shannon; 2 grandsons, Sam Inserra of Fernandina Beach and Patrick Urland as well as a sister, Janie Watson of Hendersonville, TN.

Funeral services for Mr. Davis will be held Thursday, August 15, 2024 at 11:00 AM in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 AM.

He will be laid to rest, with military honors, beside his beloved wife at Bosque Bello Cemetery.