Balloons fly high in memory of a Lydia loved one
Members of Johnny Davis’ family gathered over the weekend to release balloons in his memory. The Lydia resident would have been 102 on Jan. 15. PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA LYLES
By Samantha Lyles
Johnny Davis would have turned 102 on January 15, and his family members were eagerly anticipating the annual birthday bash that brought many of his 13 children, over 50 grandkids, and 102 great-grandchildren to the family home in Lydia. Although Johnny passed away from natural causes last month, family members still gathered on Saturday to share memories and prayers in his honor. “Yesterday would have been my dad’s 102nd birthday, but he passed away on December 2nd. We always celebrate his birthday and it’s always a big deal, so my siblings decided to get together today and release balloons in his memory,” said daughter Sheila Joint. “He was a pillar of the community, well-loved and respected by everyone, and he will always be missed.” At the birthday gathering, son Mitch Davis sported a custom-made hat and mask to honor his dad, embroidered with the words ‘Mr. 102.’ Mitch served as Johnny’s caregiver for the past several years, and he described his father’s spirits as gentle and loving right up to the end. “If you knew my father, you knew he loved everybody, not just people in his family. He had love for everyone and would help anyone,” said Mitch. “His memory will never be lost.” “My dad had a catch phrase that went, ‘plan, patience, and love.’ He said you have to have a plan in life, and you must have patience when pursuing that plan, but you can’t do anything without love,” said son Kim Davis, who recalled his father’s words and wishes from his last days. “He said he wanted us all to get along with each other. When you have a disagreement, just work to get past it,” said Kim. “He wanted people to treat each other right and love one another, and we definitely need that right now.”