With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Bethel Davis Sr., 96, of Andrews, SC, widower of the late Sarah Davis, who passed away on Monday, January 29, 2024 at his residence.
Obituary
Bethel Davis, Sr., affectionately known as “Big Boy” (Mayor of Morrisville), was born on February 9, 1927, in Williamsburg County to the late Henry and Mary McKnight Davis, who both preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his loving wife, Sarah H. Frazier Davis, and his siblings Victoria, Rebecca, Dorothy, Vivian, Hattie, Andrew, Isaac, Willie, and Vander.
Bethel received his education in Williamsburg County School system. Developing work ethnics early in his life, he was introduced to the pulp wood industry where he was employed with Bruce-Parker at a very early age of 15 years old and later with MeadWestvaco Cooperation (Andrews Mill) as a Chip Operator for over forty-four years, retiring in 1995. Bethel was a very dedicated farmer, additionally managing over 100 swine. As a cultivator, he grew tobacco, corn, cotton, sugar cane, and vegetables. He was compassionate about sharing his harvest with his family, community, and friends. He became a proud member of the legendary Morrisville Brass Brand in 1953, where he played the Trombone. He recently conducted an interview with C. Williams Rush Museum of African American Arts and Culture sharing the legendary history of the establishment of the band. The Band traveled many places such as New Orleans, LA, Atlanta, GA, Beaufort, SC, Charleston SC, Savannah, GA, Myrtle Beach, SC and much much more. This gospel band were most known for playing at places such as Old-Fashioned church picnics, baseball parks, the Mardi Gras, Mo Jo festival, holiday parades, birthday parties, and many more.
Bethel was united in holy matrimony in September 1953 to Sarah H. Frazier. God blessed this union with five loving children: Bethel Jr., Henry J., Karl, Sherry, Wayne, and stepdaughter Beverly reared as his own. Bethel accepted Christ at an early age. He was a proud member of St. John A.M.E. Church in the Morrisville Community. He loved his church and was actively involved as member of the Trustee Board, Sexton for many years, Gospel Choir (President), and the Male Choir. Additionally, the Gospel Choir traveled around to numerous churches exploring their Gospel Ministry. Bethel and his brother (Isaac) also, explored their Ministry of music by singing duets at numerous funeral services. He was a faithful servant leader of Class #3. He was a true Missionary and was compassionate about visiting the sick and shut in within numerous communities. Bethel was also a member of Cherokee Lodge #415 where he served as Tyler for over 50 years and was most recently recognized at the 155th Grand Lodge Session as the oldest member within District Eleven of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of South Carolina.
Bethel had a heart of gold, planting, harvesting vegetables yearly, and distributing them within numerous communities. He would transport others to appointments and would also remove leftover waste from several homes. Bethel genuinely enjoyed sitting on his porch, loved receiving visitors, and would talk for hours, if you let him. Bethel was full of wisdom and shared knowledge dated back to a young boy. He was a Legendary Historian who would absolutely blow your mind with the information that was shared. Bethel was never in a hurry as he traveled up and down the dangerous highways. He loved going to Mingo Store, Newton’s, Fatz Fish To Go, and Kenny’s Barbecue. A true father figure to so many around the world and was extremely proud of his children’s, grandchildren’s accomplishments, and successes.
He was loved dearly by his family, friends, and anyone whom he came in contact with. Those who are left to cherish his fond memories: Children, Bethel Jr. (Barbara) Davis, Henry (Cathy) Davis, Karl (Annette) Davis, Sherry Davis (Learnant) Livingston, Wayne (Elethia) Davis and stepdaughter, Beverly (Jerome) Sweat; thirteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; one sister, Lee Ella Davis of Rochester, NY; six sisters-in-law, two brother in laws, host of loving nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews; host of other relatives and friends including T.M. Snow, Rev. Wilford Kinlaw, Henry (Valarie) Gibson, Johnny (Betty) Dorsey, Ozell (Emma) Dorsey, Nathaniel (Katherine) Dorsey, Derome (Ruth) Gibson, Frank Cooper Jr., Bill Bailey, Raymond Cooper, Otis Dorsey, and Kenny Morris.
The family is receiving friends and family at 156 Moses Road, Andrews, SC.
All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Andrews, SC. 843-354-2292.
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