William Russell Davis

William Russell “Russ” Davis, 89, of Williamsport, Maryland, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026, at Doey’s House in Hagerstown, Maryland.

Russ was born on April 16, 1936, in Lake City, Pennsylvania, the tenth and youngest child of the late Lynn M. Davis and Eva Hamilton Davis. He graduated from Rice Avenue Union High School in 1954, where he proudly served as president of his senior class and played on the school’s undefeated Erie County championship football team.

Following graduation, Russ enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served four years as a Cryptologic Technician, attaining the rank of First Class Petty Officer (CT1). During his service, he attended the Navy’s language school where he studied Chinese. He was quickly deployed to Taiwan where he utilized electronic intelligence techniques to track Chinese ground command signals and radio communications, naval movements, and mainland airfields. He spent his last tour of duty on board the command cruiser, USS North Hampton (CLC-1), based out of Norfolk, Virginia.

After his honorable discharge, Russ used the G.I. Bill to attend Penn State University, earning a degree in electrical engineering. One week after graduating in 1962, he married his childhood next-door neighbor, Loretta “Anne” (McCalla) Davis. The couple moved to Hagerstown, Maryland, where Russ began his career with Potomac Edison (later Allegheny Power) as an electrical engineer in the Planning Department. He enjoyed a distinguished 40-year career, including 30 years as Supervisor of Area Planning.

In 1968, Russ and Anne settled in nearby Williamsport, where they spent nearly six decades building a life together and raising their two sons.

Russ was deeply committed to his faith, family, and community. He was an active member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, where he served as an Elder, Deacon, Sunday School teacher, and occasionally filled the pulpit, delivering sermons. He also dedicated many years to the Van Lear Civic Association, serving as President, Treasurer, and Secretary, helping to maintain and strengthen his neighborhood.

A lifelong learner, Russ was a member of the Hagerstown Torch Club and Toastmasters, where he enjoyed developing his public speaking skills and forming lasting friendships. In 1981, he returned to school in the evenings to earn his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Frostburg State University.

Above all, Russ was a devoted father. He took great joy in being actively involved in the lives of his sons, Barry and Christopher, coaching and encouraging them in baseball, football, and basketball. He rarely missed a game and was always their biggest supporter. He also cherished his time supporting their involvement in Boy Scouts, participating in trips, hikes, and campouts.

In addition to his parents, Russ was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Anne Davis, and seven siblings: Merle Davis, Everett Davis, Louise Brenholts, Wilbur Davis, Ronald Davis, Donald Davis, and Winnie Waxham.

He is survived by his two sons, Barry Davis (Andra) of Chester, Maryland, and Christopher Davis (Mary) of Martinsburg, West Virginia; three grandchildren, Callie Davis, Ryan Davis, and Ellie Davis; two sisters, Virginia Getz-Meeder of Lake City, Pennsylvania, and Joanne Bigelis of Woodinville, Washington; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Russ will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his deep commitment to his community, and the kindness and care he extended to others. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the many lives he touched.

In accordance with his wishes, no services will be held, and his ashes will be laid to rest near his beloved wife, Anne.