Tavis Davis

Tavis Davis, affectionally known to many as "TD," died peacefully on March 28, 2024, at age 92, in Boston, MA.

He was born in Buena Vista, GA, on November 17, 1931, to Thomas Davis and Eula Mae Davis (Wilson). Tavis was educated in the Georgia Public School System and raised by stern, loving parents alongside his nine brothers and sisters. Tavis' family left Buena Vista when he was ten and relocated to Biloxi, MS. Tavis had fond memories of later working with his grandfather as a cook apprentice. In search of a better life, his family relocated to Quincy, FL, where he worked on a tobacco farm with his father and brothers, Tommy and Matthew. At that time, boys were expected to work to help support the family. Then, at age fifteen, the family moved, traveling by train to Boston, MA, where Tavis' "Aunt Bertha" welcomed the family to live in her home in Allston. Aunt Bertha took Tavis and his siblings to Revere Beach, where they saw the ocean for the first time. They were amazed by the ocean, and Tavis remembered the “water tasting salty” compared to the streams he had often gone into to cool off as a child.

As a teenager, Tavis went on vacation to GA with his dad and his brothers, Matthew and Tommy. He stayed there for almost five years before traveling to Newark, NJ, and New York City, NY, before returning to Boston to make this his permanent home.

In Boston, Tavis met a beautiful and talented "songstress" named Arthelia "Vicky" Grace. The couple would later have twin boys, Tavis ("Lil Tavis" and Terry). However, a few short years later, Arthelia was called home to be with the Lord. It was also during this time that Tavis met Dan Thompson, and since the 1950s, the two have remained close friends; only death could have separated these "long-time running buddies."

Tavis celebrated and enjoyed life with his family, fondly remembering the "Friday Night Fish Fry and Poker, " and other card games. He raved over his sister's cooking and was often shooed out of the kitchen with his brother Matthew to leave food for the others. He loved spending time with his siblings and their children, his nieces, and nephews! He could often be seen giving advice and words of encouragement, and although he may not have had all the answers, he always made you feel like you got just what you needed! He knew he was well-loved, whether his nieces or nephews were as far west as California or as far south as Texas. He always cherished the outpouring of love he received.

After Arthelia's passing, Tavis later found companionship and joy with Beatrice "Peggy" Jones, whom he married and shared his life with until she also went to her heavenly home. They enjoyed many years together, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. They shared the same passion for life and music.

As an avid music lover, Tavis enjoyed many genres from artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Marvin Gaye, and Snoop Dog! He loved watching his favorite sports, which included golf, basketball, horse racing, and football. His charitable donations included St. Jude Hospital for Children, whom the children he called "the innocent," and (when he didn't win) he was making donations to the Mass State Lottery Commission!

Throughout his life, Tavis worked diligently in various industries, including food service, railways, construction, and parks and recreation. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to supporting his family. He loved animals and enjoyed his faithful cat, named “Meow.”

Tavis leaves to mourn his loss and cherish his memories, his sons Tavis Carter (Lisa) and Terry Carter of MA. His grandchildren are Victor Tavis Carter, Angel Julian of Canada, Christopher Blackwell of CA, Rashida Jenkins, Ayana Butler, Thomas Bartee, Terrance Carter of MA, Micheal Bonner of GA, Aryelle Carter, and Zachary Carter of CA. His great-grandchildren Kopit Tavis Wahpasiw of Canada, Pharoah Martin of MA, Destiny Bonner of GA, great-grandchildren, many loving nieces, nephews, large extended family, and many cherished friends.

Tavis was preceded in death by his mother, Eula Mae Davis (Wilson); father, Thomas Davis; spouse, Beatrice "Peggy" Jones; Siblings, Ella, Doris, Betty, Annie, Tommie Nell, Gloria, Tom "Jr.", Mathew, Johnnie, his grandson Brandon Duarte, and Arthelia Grace.

Tavis will be remembered for his kindness, resilience, and unwavering love for his family and community. He leaves a legacy that will continue inspiring all who knew him.

May Tavis “T.D” Davis rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Tavis Davis, please visit our floral store.