Reverend Jefferson H. Davis

Jefferson H. Davis (1905-1988) was a native Mainer who made a significant contribution to the work of the Church of God both in New England and regions beyond. His obituary conveys several highlights from his journey:

Obituary

Rev. Jefferson H. Davis

AUGUSTA – The Rev. Jefferson Howard Davis, 83, of Pinkham Road, Windsor, died July 17, 1988, at Williams Health Care Facility, Glendridge Drive, Augusta, after a long illness.

He was born in Appleton, June 16, 1905, the son of the Rev. Elbridge N. and Ella Mae (Collins) Davis.

He attended elementary school in Appleton and high school in Union.

An ordained minister of the Church of God since September 30, 1939, Rev. Davis pastored churches in Appleton, Bangor, Hampden, Belfast, Stockton Springs, South Orland, Unionville, Thorndike, Mattawamkeag, Lincoln and Augusta, several of which he built.

He was the state overseer of the Church of God in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Prince Edward Island.

Rev. Davis moved to Alaska in 1948, and was state overseer for seven of his 17 years there as a missionary. He built and started several churches in Alaska and preached in Indian villages.

Rev. Davis owned and operated a sawmill in Palmer, Alaska, and used his dogsled team to haul lumber with which he built many churches.

He married Hope (Damren) Pinkham in Appleton October 9, 1978.

He is survived by his wife of Windsor; three sons, Stanley Davis of Palmer, Alaska, Reginald Davis of Liberty, and Paul Davis of Glenburn; a daughter, Ramona Youngren of Snohomish, Washington; a stepson, Thomas C . Deschaine of Augusta; a stepdaughter, Mrs. Ronald (Debra) French of Windsor; a brother, Ivan O. Davis of Liberty; a sister, Susie N. Miller of Appleton; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends may call Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at Gray Funeral Home, Windsor Neck Road, Windsor.

A funeral service will be held Thursday at 1 p.m. at the Church of God, North Belfast Avenue, Augusta.

Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Appleton.

Memorial donations may be made to the Church of God Missions, in care of the Church of God, North Belfast Avenue, Augusta, 04330. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home and the church.

[Article contributed by George and Jeanette King of Lincoln, ME]

Photos and additional information on the life of J. H. Davis may be sent to jrturpin2010@gmail.com.