Robert Jay Davis Sr.

Robert Jay Davis Sr., 84, died Friday July 3, 2020 at his home in Palm Beach FL surrounded by his loving family.

He leaves his wife of 63 years, Barbara Rude Davis; his daughters, Tracy Jo Moore, Betsy Jean Fantis (Dennis), Valerie Ann Davis; his son, Robert Jay Davis Jr. and 7 grandchildren; Thomas Nicholas Fantis (30), Shelby Davis Moore (29) Christine Elizabeth Fantis (28) Kaylee McNair Fantis (24) Peyton Sky Davis (16) Robert Jay Davis III "Tripp" (15) and Schyler Justin Davis (12). 

Born in Kirksville, MO on June 13, 1936, the son of Dr. Edward Valentine Davis and Mary Louise (Thompson) Davis, brother to Joseph Val.  At age 5 the family moved to St. Paul, MN.  In high school "Bob" attended Breck Academy where his hockey team was State Champs, graduating in 1954. He went on to study History at University of Minnesota (Member of Chi Psi Fraternity) and graduated in 1958, this is where he met the love of his life Barbara and they married later that same year at St. Mary's Catholic Church in White Bear Lake.

Bob was employed by 3M right out of school and travelled the world selling 3M products in 66 countries. He loved traveling and meeting new friends but was always happy to come home to the USA, he was very proud to be an American and thankful for his country, never taking for granted his freedom and the opportunities that were available to him. 

3M moved the family to Panama City, Panama from 1967-1969, and back to the states finally settling in Miami, FL.  Bob was a devoted father, enjoyed coaching, playing golf and being with his family.  He was an avid Football "Vikings”, "Dolphins" and "Miami Hurricanes" fan; he enjoyed many sports and loved any type of competition.  Bob and Barbara enjoyed over 15 summers in Sugar Mountain, NC where they hosted many family gatherings. Family was always first.

Mr. Davis became "Big Bob'' when his first grandchild was born in 1989 and the name stuck. He enjoyed talking to people everywhere and adding a "sparkle" to their day, with his inviting smile, quick wit and warm baby blue eyes. Big Bob was a kind and caring man who always looked at the positive side of life and appreciated people for who they were. Big Bob will be sorely missed by his family and many many friends of old and new.

Private services will be at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, Boca Raton. 

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to be made in Robert Jay Davis' honor to Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation (nchcf.org), https://www.nicklaushealth.org/foundation

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