Theodore R. Davis

Guilderland - Theodore Royal Davis 89, passed peacefully into eternal rest on Friday, May 6, 2016 with his children at his side. Born at Albany Brady Children's Hospital in Albany NY to the late Joseph and Margret (Clark) Davis, the family resided in the Arbor Hill and West Albany sections. He would later reside at the family home at 215 Second Street where he began his own family.

He was a 1945 graduate of Phillip Schuyler High School where he received vocational training in Electrical Shop. He often remarked that the vocational training he received at Phillip Schuyler was far superior to the course offered at the local Community College. He later credited this training to his success in building his own home. Few knew that he was an exceptional musician and vocalist. He was a percussionist for the Albany Lancers Drum and Bugle Corp. We would laugh at his stories of performing along country roads with only the farm animals as spectators.Ted married the love of his life Marie T. Carr in 1949. Ted was amused by Marie's reactions of awe when they honeymooned in NYC. In 1955, he and Marie settled into the house he built in Guilderland. Their home was a haven for many and a home to all. It was a very, very active home life which for Ted and Marie revolved around their children and their activities.He spent 10 years as Equipment Manager and Concession Cook for Guilderland Pop Warner Pee Wee Football. He and Marie championed both son's participation in football.Ted worked for Otis Elevator for 43 years; 33 years in maintenance and 10 years in installation. He was an active member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 35 in Albany NY. He held several elected positions, including president and treasurer. He was honored to have been voted by his Union Brothers to attend many Union Conventions.
Ted was an avid outdoors man. He and Marie built a cabin in the Adirondacks where he taught his sons to hunt, and his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren to "bait" a hook. After retirement he and Marie made many cross country trips, making sure to visit family and friends along the way. He loved the state of Alaska, making 3 trips with Marie and 1 with his son's Teddy and Eddie. He lamented that if only he was 20 years younger he and Marie would have moved to Alaska. He loved the majestic openness.

Ted is predeceased by his beloved wife of 53 years Marie T. Carr, and siblings: Joseph, June and Lawrence.

He is survived by his 4 children: Patricia (Bill) Lofink, Deborah (John) O'Toole, Theodore (Tracy) Davis Jr., and Edward Davis; his 12 grandchildren - Rodney (Jolene) Wiltshire Jr., Kileen (Mark) Davies, Johnnie O'Toole, Timmy (Damarie)O'Toole, Kelly (Chris) Shaw, Heather (Marc) Seelbach, Leanne O'Toole, Robert (deceased) Davis, Samatha Davis, Rachael Davis, Edward (Rachel) Davis Jr., Brian Davis, and his 16 great grandchildren: Michael Wiltshire, Daniel Wiltshire, Julia Davies, Brooke Davies, Kimberly Davies, Matthew Davies, Alassandra O'Toole, Caleb O'Toole, Makela Shaw, Leilani Shaw, Owen Shaw, Lily Shaw, Logan Shaw, Avery Seelbach (on the way), Kalec Davis and Eli Davis (on the way) and many, many nieces, nephews and friends. Ted was a friend to all he came in contact with. He was strong, kind and giving. His life lessons were hard work, simple values and simple wants. Get an education, but also get your hands dirty, feel the grit, remember where you come from. With heavy hearts we say good-by to this beloved man. Jesus has received you in heaven. Mom is waiting for your promised dance. And, oh yeah, keep an eye on us from up there; make sure our paths stay straight.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ted's name to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at:
https://shop.stjude.org/GiftCatalog/donation.do?cID=14262&pID=24671&sc_icid=header-btn-donate-now