James Hudson 'Hut' Davis

Published in Charlotte Observer on 3/27/2009

Mr. Davis, 87, of Charlotte, NC, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2009 at his home.

Affectionately known as 'Hut', by his many relatives and friends, he was born on October 18, 1921 in Canon, Georgia, son of the late Columbus Gifford and Ethel Wilson Davis. In addition to his parents, Mr. Davis was preceded in death by his sisters Verdelle D. Waldron and Marie D. Blynt and brothers Lawrence C. 'Crash' Davis and Albert A. 'Toad' Davis.

Mr. Davis is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Eunice Funderburk Davis; daughter, Linda T. Swiler and husband, Robert of Greer, SC; grandsons, Lance Swiler and wife, Virginia and Sean Swiler and wife, Ashley of Charlotte, NC; three great-grandchildren, Morgan, Cameron and Cody Swiler all of Charlotte.

Hut is also survived by his brother, Bobby Frank Davis and wife, Mary of Charlotte and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Hut attended public schools in Gastonia, NC. After graduated from Gastonia High School, class of 1942, he played professional and semi-professional baseball before joining the US Air Force. He served in the Pacific theater with the 'Jolly Roger' squadron as a Flight Engineer on B24 bombing missions.

After World War II, Hut continued his baseball career in the New England league and in NC and SC, and was involved in several business ventures in Charlotte. All four of the Davis brothers played and were fans of baseball. The sport was Hut's lifelong passion.

A service to celebrate Hut's life will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 28, 2009 at McEwen Funeral Service at Sharon Memorial with The Reverend Brett Hedgepath officiating.

The family will greet friends from 12 noon until the funeral hour at the funeral home. Entombment will follow in Sharon Memorial Mausoleum.

The family of Hut Davis would like to thank Hospice and Palliative Care, Charlotte Region, especially nurse Carleen White; also to express appreciation to Hut's faithful caretakers Susan Keever and Cheryl Hiscox, and many friends and relatives who made his battle with cancer easier to bear.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care, Charlotte Region, 1420 E. 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204 or Hemophilia of NC, Post Office Box 70, Cary, NC 27512 or charity of donor's choice.

Arrangements are entrusted to McEwen Funeral Service at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC 28212. (704) 334.6421.