Winford Gene Davis

Winford Gene Davis, Excelsior Springs, Mo., died April 21, 2021 at his home, of complications of prostate cancer, at the age of 88, one day prior to his birthday. He was born April 22, 1932 in Kansas City, Mo.

He is preceded in death by his father, Raymond Davis of Winwood, Mo.; mother, Dorothy Evans Hill and stepfather, William J. Hill of Kearney, Mo.

Gene grew up in Winwood, Mo.,and graduated from North Kansas City High School in 1950. He worked for Bill Allen Chevrolet in North Kansas City before joining the United States Navy in 1952. He served in California, Texas, Japan and served a tour aboard the USS Hornet during the Korean Conflict.

In 1957, Gene moved to Excelsior Springs to begin employment at Ken Myers Chevrolet-Buick where, for the next 30 years, he was top salesman, retiring in 1987. He then worked part time for Westfall O’Dell Motors in Excelsior Springs as a dealer trade driver for 25 years before completely retiring at the age of 80 in 2014.

On May 22, 1960, Gene married Gailya A. Siegel of Excelsior Springs, Mo., who survives at the home. Other survivors include two sons, Todd Davis of Excelsior Springs, and Ray (and wife Rashelle) Davis of Liberty, Mo.; two granddaughters, Casey (and husband Louis) Vanderlinden of Excelsior Springs, and Presley Davis of Liberty, Mo.; one brother, Joe R. Davis of Kansas City, Mo.; and several nieces and nephews.

Gene had a great passion for antique and classic cars and pickup trucks, particularly Chevrolets. He also enjoyed collecting Hot Wheels and other diecast model cars and trucks, and enjoyed building model car kits. He was a proud veteran, loved his country and the US flag, and attended church regularly.

Visitation will be Monday, April 26, 2021, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs, Mo. Funeral service will be Tuesday, April 27, 2021, 10 a.m., also at Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, followed by graveside services with military honors at the North New Garden Church Cemetery, O Highway in Ray County, Mo.