William "Bill" Davis, 77, of West Melbourne, Florida, departed this world on Sunday, August 2nd, 2015, after weeks surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Bill leaves behind his loving wife, Gwen (Sanborn) of 54 years; two daughters and sons-in-law whom he loved so much (despite their supporting other sports teams)-Colleen and Eric Sullivan of Wethersfield, CT; Tracy and Kevin Maher of Amston, CT; six grandchildren and their spouses/significant others who were each lights in his life-Ryan (Lindsey) and Jason Sullivan of Wethersfield, CT; Maher clan: Caitlin (Patrick) Custy of Portland, CT; Meaghan (Theus), Danny, Kelsey (Sebastian) of Amston; one precious great grandson-Brayden; eight loving nieces and nephews; several special friends including Joe Glowacki, Harold Hunt, Chris Loschetter and a very happy, fat cat named Rambo. Bill was predeceased by his parents, William and Gladys Davis; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Connie Davis; mother-in-law Virginia Sanborn; and a childhood partner-in-crime, Jim Gustafson. Bill grew up in Hartford, attending Our Lady of Sorrows School and graduating from Hartford High School in 1957. Sports were a major part of Bill's life, playing basketball and baseball throughout his school years. His love for sports carried on as life progressed with Bill catching any and every Yankees and NY Giants game on t.v. whenever he could, much to Gwen's chagrin. Bill served for thirty years as a firefighter/EMT on the West Hartford Fire Department, quietly and humbly saving lives with no need for recognition. He carried that through to his personal life, being a constant supporter to his daughters and grandchildren, reveling in every one of their achievements. Bill's love for Gwen was immeasurable and evident in every interaction with her over the years.
Bill dedicated his life to serving the Lord and caring for people in every aspect. Since moving to Florida 22 years ago, Bill has shared his faith with other Catholics as Eucharistic Minister, Minister to the Sick, Cursillo member, a Why Catholic group facilitator, and a volunteer at the local soup kitchen. We are forever grateful to Dr. Geetha Priyanka, the wonderful Dr. Ruiz, all nurses and CNAs at William Childs Hospice who helped us through the difficult time of saying goodbye. Donations may be made in Bill's name to William Childs Hospice, 381 Medplex Pkwy, Palm Bay, FL 32907. Calling hours will be Saturday, August 15, 2015, 8:45 to 10:45 am at the Dillon-Baxter Funeral Home 1276 Berlin Tpk. Wethersfield. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial 11:30 am at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 79 New Park Ave. Hartford. Burial Will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery. A memorial mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Palm Bay, FL, at a future date. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you emulate Bill by going out of your way to talk to a stranger, be kind to those who need it, cherish your loved ones every day, and tip your hat to Bill at the start of each Yankees and NY Giants game. To share a memory with the family, please visit www.dillonbaxter.com