of Harrison, AR
October 7, 1952 - January 14, 2025
Joe Richard Davidson entered his heavenly home on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the age of 72. He was born October 7, 1952, to Don and Genevieve (Richardson) Davidson in Harrison, Arkansas. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Genevieve Davidson, and brother, Roger Vickers.
He was a devoted son, husband, Dad, and Papa Joe and the one everyone called when something needed to be fixed, built, rebuilt, or problem solved---a living MacGyver. He was a quiet genius and a master of mechanics, woodworking, and welding. He loved like Jesus, always patient, always selfless, always present.
Joe married his precious JaNell (Ware) on July 7, 2007. Together they were members of CrossRoads Community Church where Joe quickly became fond of Johnny's preaching and being part of a loving church family. Some of his favorite pastimes were camping and traveling the country with JaNell-even when it meant running out of fuel in Wyoming and hitching a ride into town with a stranger while leaving JaNell back at the rig with a can of bear spray.
Joe graduated from Bergman High School in 1970 where he played basketball and baseball. Shortly after graduation and embracing his family's deep patriotism, he enlisted in the US Army. He served his country in the US Army Reserve for over 21 years and proudly retired as an E6 staff sergeant.
Joe had many noble characteristics including fierce loyalty and work ethic. After Army basic training, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee to enroll in diesel college. Following completion of the program, he returned to Harrison and was hired at the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department (AHTD) and served faithfully for 42 years.
He enjoyed tinkering, fixing, woodworking projects, restoring his '47 Ford pick-up, hunting, and fishing, but mostly chasing his kids and grandkids all over the country through sporting events and special occasions. He was happiest when he was with his family and was one very, very proud Papa Joe.
He is survived by his wife, JaNell; his daughter, Joni Chy (Andy) of Harrison; his son, Trevor Davidson (Stephanie) of Rogers; his grandchildren, Cara Barrett, Sloan Barrett, Mia Barrett, Carly Davidson, Caylin Davidson, and Cora Davidson; his great-grandchildren, Barrett Ezell, Sutton Ezell; his mother-in-law, Lois Taylor; his brother-in-law, Terry Ware (Amy) and sister-in-law, Joan Vickers; and a host of nieces, nephew, and friends that will miss him greatly.
Visitation was on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at CrossRoads Community Church in Harrison with service following the visitation, with Bros. Johnny Walters and Paul Braschler officiating.
Graveside service and interment followed at York Cemetery, Bergman, AR, with military honors.
Pallbearers were Trevor Davidson, Sloan Barrett, Andy Chy, Tommy Creamer, Glen Creamer, and Bill Sansing.
Honorary Pallbearers were Mac Troutt, Gerald King, Mark Earnhart, Gerald Wilkerson, Rick Widner, AHTD District 9, and the 489th Combat Engineer Battalion.
Sign Guestbook
28 Condolence(s)
Nick and Cindy Kimes
Sunday, January 19, 2025
Joe was a great boss to work for at AHTD. He was a great person and will be missed. So sorry for your loss.
Charles Davidson
Saturday, January 18, 2025
So sorry for your loss Joe Richard was a wonderful person.
John & Barbara Johnson
Saturday, January 18, 2025
Absolutely heartbreaking. Joe was one of the best men I've ever known and I'm very proud to have served with him.
Ronnie Ruff
Friday, January 17, 2025
One of the better parents I met while coaching. I sure enjoyed those two great young people he helped raise. Joni and Trevor, Michelle and I are thinking of you and are so sorry for your loss.
Don and Joyce Morton
Friday, January 17, 2025
Janell your in our thoughts and prayers. We love you sweet girl. Joe was one of the good ones sis. You had the best.
Patricia Whitney
Friday, January 17, 2025
Sorry for your loss I know what it's like to be there God bless you and prayers for all the family
Jack Carpenter
Friday, January 17, 2025
Joe was a very nice person live talking with him he always wanted to swap knives and we did RIP my friend.
Cheryl & Claud White
Friday, January 17, 2025
JaNell, Claud & I are so very sorry for your loss of Joe. I know he was the apple of your eye and such a caring, loving husband. We will pray that you find inner peace in your heart from losing him and God will guide you forward in his loving, caring and soul fulfilling way. Please know our prayers are with you going forward. Andi loved him very much and knew what a blessing he was to you and for you!!
Love Always,
Claud & Cheryl White
Betty Burge
Friday, January 17, 2025
Prayers for all the family. I always remember him being referred to as a hard working guy
Don and Jodi Mumm
Friday, January 17, 2025
Thinking of you and your family; Our deepest sympathy. Joe touched many people’s lives—mine included. I’m grateful I got the chance to know him and serve with him in the U.S. Army Reserve.
Leisha Graham
Thursday, January 16, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with all his family and friends. May God give you peace and comfort during this time. God bless you all.
Chris Smith
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Dear Janell,
I am so very sorry for this loss of yours.
I pray you find peace and love in your heart to ease the pain.
This is a loss too big for words.
Chris
Rosie Blansett
Thursday, January 16, 2025
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
SHEILA SISCO
Thursday, January 16, 2025
So very sorry for you loss .Your family is in our thoughts and prayers..
Donnie McMurrin
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Sorry to for your loss. We will miss your visits on Sunday mornings.
Jacquelyn Walden
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Prayers
Greg Kaefer
Thursday, January 16, 2025
My thoughts and prayers to the entire family
Kelly Davis
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Sending prayers to all the family during this time of loss. Wrap your arms around all the special memories you now have.
Tony Ruhl
Thursday, January 16, 2025
So sorry for your loss, Prayers
Jana Kindall
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Trevor, Joni, and Janell, I’m so very sorry for your family’s loss! I will keep you all in my prayers! Joe was such a great guy!
Brad Troutt
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Sorry for your loss, Joe was a good man. I enjoyed hunting with him and Trevor years ago when I was a kid.
Laura Mahan
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
JaNell, we are so very sorry about Joe’s passing! Praying for you and the family. Felt like we’d known you both for years. You are both so special!
Love and hugs, friend.
Donna Curtis
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss. Your family and his friends will miss him.
My sympathy to all
Donna Curtis
Eric and Carol Godfrey
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
JaNell and family, we are so saddened to learn of Joe’s sudden passing. We pray that the Lord will comfort you with His presence and peace during this difficult time. With much love, Eric & Carol
Brit Burns
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Larry and Jane Anderson
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that you all are in our prayers.
Bob and Lisa Massengale
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
JanNell, Bobby and I are so sorry for your loss. We are heart broken for you and your family. You are in our hearts and prayers. We are here for you!
Debbie Harp
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
So sorry for your loss ,to the family. Prayers for the family he will be missed dearly.