Billy Bates Davis

Billy Bates Davis, age 87, of New Liberty passed away Saturday, November 26, 2016 at Gallatin Healthcare in Warsaw, with family around him. Born February 21, 1929 in Owen County, he was the son of the late W.N. and Louise Bates Davis. He was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church and also served as a trustee, Sunday school teacher, superintendent and as a deacon for many years at New Liberty Baptist Church. Billy graduated from New Liberty High School in 1947 as the class Valedictorian and went on to study drafting. He served our county in the Army Reserves and remained in New Liberty as a lifelong farmer. He put in many hours with dairy cattle, tobacco, beef cattle and hay crops. He was also a founding member of the New Liberty Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as Chief for seven years and remained an active member until his 70s. Billy was an excellent mechanic and volunteered many hours to the local 4-H clubs teaching tractor mechanics. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Ruth Lewis Davis. They married on June 23, 1951 and recently celebrated their 65th anniversary. Billy is also survived by his sons, William Steven (Carol) Davis of Lexington, and James Gregory (Dawn) Davis of New Liberty as well as his three grandchildren, Ryan (Jill) Davis, Kristen Davis and Kelsey Davis. McDonald & New Funeral Homes are in charge of arrangements. Family will receive friends at the Seminary Street location on Tuesday, November 29, 2016 from 11am until 1pm. Funeral services will follow at 1pm with Bro. David "Milkweed' Wotier presiding. Burial will be in the Owenton Cemetery and memorial contributions may be made to Gallatin Healthcare.