William Davidson

William Thomas Davidson, 82, of Salem, Virginia, passed away peacefully in his sleep, on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. Born in Cannonsburg, Kentucky on Mar9ch 30, 1941, to the late Elbert Alex “Jack” Davidson and Snow Justice Davidson Matherly, he is also preceded in death by his sisters, Martha Ann Davidson Alley, Polly Jane Davidson Waite, Emily Davidson Havens; nephews, Eric Davidson Alley and Thomas Dees, as well as a niece, Snowden Alley McHenry.

Tom, as he was known to his friends, was a proud Army veteran, having been stationed in both Fort Lewis in Washington and at the Arctic Test Center in Alaska. Following an honorable discharge, he graduated in 1970 with a bachelor’s degree and in 1971 achieved a Master of Library Sciences, both from the University of Mississippi. Tom served as a librarian at Roanoke College from 1971 until his retirement in 2015 and maintained lasting friendships with students, faculty, and staff. Tom had a gift for realizing the potential and value in people and in collectibles, especially antiques. He collected and cared for many cherished family pieces as well as art, textiles, and books; he especially enjoyed repairing, restoring, and rehoming furniture. Tom had a “heart of gold” and will be dearly missed.

Survivors include nieces and nephews, Heather Havens, David Dees, Lemuel Waite, Samuel Waite, Zack Waite, Jane W. McKeough, and Peggy W. Guilbeau, his canine friends, Belle and SOB, and chatty canary, as well as a host of special friends.

Friends and family are invited to attend a graveside service on Thursday, July 6, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at Evergreen Burial Park in Roanoke; Reverend Paul Henrickson will officiate.