Russell James Davis

Russell James Davis, age 82, passed away on Wednesday, December 23, 2009, in Gulfport, Mississippi. Born and raised in New Orleans, he was a United States Navy Veteran and proudly worked for the New Orleans Fire Department for 28 years, retiring as a fire truck operator. Mr. Davis and his wife, the late Mary Ellen Creel Davis, relocated to Ocean Springs, MS, after Hurricane Katrina. He is preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Mary Ellen, his father, Louis Davis Sr. and his mother Lottie Bonnecaze Davis, and his grandson, Zachary Davis. He is survived by his brother, Louis Davis, Jr., and his sons: Barry Davis and wife Norma, Michael Davis and wife Jennifer, and Sean Davis and wife Deborah. Mr. Davis held a special place in his heart for his grandchildren Barry Jr., Timothy, Lauren, Emily, Kenneth, Daniel, and Tracey. Paw-paw joins his grandchild Zachary to play under the eternal gaze of God. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass at Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic Church at 10:30 am, 6425 W. Metairie Ave., Metairie, LA, on January 23, 2010. Visitation will precede the Mass from 9:30 to 10:30 Internment will follow at Hope Mausoleum, 4841 Canal St., New Orleans, LA. The family asks that in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation. The Davis family wishes to thank the Hospice of Light and their devoted nurses for the special care of our parents. The family also wishes to thank everyone at April's place for the care and love given to our parents in their time of need. Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Ave., Biloxi was in charge of arrangements. View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com