Larry "Whiz" Davis

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Larry Gene "Whiz" Davis, age 72, of Manila, passed from this life, Wednesday June 17, 2015 at his home. Born in Manila, he was the son of the late Joe and Sallie Cox Davis, and attended Manila High School.

As a teenager, Whiz wanted to learn bull riding, and under the guidance of his dear friend and mentor, Trigger Wall, he was able to participate in rodeos at an early age. He began flying at the age of 16 and flew as a commercial pilot for the Arkansas State Police before starting his own flying service in Manila. He was a well known area ag-pilot for 38 years. Following his retirement from flying, Whiz drove a school bus for Manila Public Schools and served as a constable for Big Lake Township. He served as a Manila city councilman, and as Manila Municipal Airport manager for 16 years. He was committed to the youth of Manila, as evidenced by his involvement in various athletic programs and city projects such as the Dunkin-Wall Water Park. Whiz attended Westside Baptist Church, and will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 3 brothers; James, Talmadge, and Charles Davis, and 2 sisters; Jan Brock and Ruby Davis.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Faye Polston Davis of the home;

One daughter, Dixie Terry of Manila; and

Three grandchildren; Jace Elkins, Mary Oliver Coppedge, and Jackson Coppedge.

Funeral service will be 11 am Saturday June 20, 2015 at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Manila with Rev. Jeff Dial and Rev. Ray Dill officiating. Burial will follow in Manila Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 6-8 Friday evening at the funeral home. Pallbearers will include; Wayne Wagner, Donnie Wagner, Linda Donovan, Paul Graham, Ronnie Skaggs, and Bennie Marr.

Friends may sign the online guest register @www.HowardFuneralService.com