Willie "Skeeter" Joe Davis
Mr. Willie Joe “Skeeter” Davis, age 83, of Axton, VA, passed away Saturday, August 15, 2026, at SECU Hospice Care, Yadkinville, NC. Mr. Davis was born May 12, 1943, in Danville, Virginia, to the late Myrtle Edith Deering Davis and the late Joe Henry Davis. He was married to Sarah Smith Davis, who survives.
Skeeter was educated in the Pittsylvania County Public School System and was a member of New Design Baptist Church in Axton, Virginia. For 20 years, Skeeter was employed by Bassett Knitting, where he worked in the dye department before his retirement. He was a hardworking man who was willing to lend a helping hand. Skeeter was especially talented when it came to repairing lawn mowers and was known as a true “handyman” who could often find a way to fix whatever needed attention.
Skeeter had a distinctive presence and a personality that was small in stature but mighty in spirit. He was known for dressing nicely and was always sleek, sharp, and well put together. His contagious laugh could brighten a room, and those who knew him will remember his warmth and humor. Skeeter loved his sister, Rubenia Mae Carter, dearly.
He is survived by his son, Jonathan Martin; a granddaughter, Jenetta Martin; a great-granddaughter, Janiya Martin; and special nieces Deborah Harris (James), Linda Hampton (Grady), LaToya Harris, and Chrystal Smith (Keith). He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Davis was also predeceased by his sister, Rubenia Mae Davis Carter, and brothers, Vernon “Jack” Davis, Edward Kenneth Davis, and Clyde Wayne Davis.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Norris Funeral Services, West End Chapel, Danville, VA, officiated by Minister Jodi Coleman. Interment will follow the funeral service at the Carter Family Cemetery, Axton, VA.
The family will receive friends, also at the West End Chapel of Norris Funeral Services, from 10:30 – 11:00 a.m. prior to the funeral service. The family will also receive friends Tuesday through Friday, 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the residence, 775 Whispering Pines Road, Axton, VA 24054.
