Bill Davis

Longtime area artist Bill L. Davis, 83, of Scott City died Saturday, June 16, 2012, at his home.

He was born July 4, 1928, in Cape Girardeau, son of Charles Homer and Ida Adeline Kern Davis. He and Gloria Rose Held were married Sept. 24, 1950, at Eisleben Lutheran Church in Scott City and were blessed with two children.

Bill began his school years in Cape Girardeau and later in Ancell, graduating from the former Fornfelt High School. While in grade school and high school, he drew his way to popularity with Western, comic and caricature drawings that he sold to fellow students for a nickel. He attended classes at California Institute of Fine Arts in San Diego.

His professional art career started with Missourian Litho and Printing Co., where he designed numerous logos, letterheads and advertising pieces. He began his freelance business in 1983, which he continued until ill health forced his retirement.

Bill was baptized and confirmed at Eisleben Church, where he served as an elder, on the finance board and as president of the congregation. He was also a member of Scott City Kiwanis Club and Chamber of Commerce. He was a charter member of the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri. During his younger years, Bill was an avid hunting and fishing enthusiast. He spent countless hours designing and painting sets for the Scott City School PTO Follies.

He was a 17-year veteran of the U.S. Naval Reserve.

Survivors include his wife, Gloria; two children, Christy Ann (Rick) Bohn and Bill L. Jr. (Tanya) Davis; four grandchildren, Kate and Richie Bohn and Hannah and Logan Davis.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Dorothy "Teenie" Peters and Louise Friese; a half sister, Imogene Mayberry; and a half brother, Alfred Davis.

Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. today at Amick-Burnett Funeral Chapel in Scott City, and from 9:30 a.m. until time of service Wednesday at Eisleben Church.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the church, with Vicar Marty Hasz officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

The family suggests that memorials be made to Eisleben Lutheran Ladies Aid or Eisleben Lutheran Church.