Willard Lee Davis, 94, of Benton, passed away at 6:42 a.m., on Wednesday, August 3, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born on February 7, 1928, to Frank and Minnie (Allen) Davis in Bessie, IL. On August 21, 1948, he married Phyllis Doty and she preceded him in death on February 7, 2021.

Willard was a member of the United States Army serving during WWII.

He was a member of Middle Fork-Salem Primitive Baptist Church.

Willard enjoyed working hard on his family farm. He loved watching birds and western movies. He played in a blue grass band with his wife, Phyllis, and they were honored to be invited and play in Washington, D.C. at the National Wall.

Willard is survived by his son, Jim Davis; two grandchildren, Tyler Davis and Janee (Scott) Johnson and two great-grandchildren, Sophia and Mattis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Minnie Davis, his wife, Phyllis Jean Davis, infant daughter, Rebecca Davis and many siblings.

Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 S. Main St., Benton, IL.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at the Jackson Grove Cemetery, 9054 Bessie Rd., Benton, IL, with Brother Larry Miller, officiating.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.