April 16, 2026, 78, Goldsboro – Kenneth “Ken” Eugene Davis, 78, passed away peacefully at Kitty Askins Hospice Center on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Ken was born in Wayne County to the late Leon and Virginia Bass Davis on May 5, 1947. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Sarah Lynne Isaacs.
A memorial service to honor Ken’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at La Grange United Methodist Church with Rev. Linda Grider and Rev. Dr. Ken Helms officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.
Meeting Susan Bonner Christopher in the cafeteria line at Christopher’s café in Kinston, Ken and Susan began a courtship that lasted just long enough for Ken but maybe a little too long for Susan. With a quick and determined statement, Susan let Ken know that it was time for the marriage proposal, and she was right. The two were happily married for nearly fifty-three years.
Beginning work as an instructor with Wayne Community College in the Engineering Department while taking classes. Ken eventually transferred to East Carolina University before joining the United States Army. Ken retired after twenty-six years of faithful and valiant service, which 18 trips to Italy in preparation for Desert Storm.
With a strong athletic ability, Ken earned a full tennis scholarship to attend Atlantic Christian College. Playing on Wilber Shirley’s softball team, he and the team were able to participate in seven world tournaments. From city and church league softball teams to time spent on the golf course, Ken relished every opportunity to participate in sports.
Always active in church, Ken and Susan were faithful members of Jefferson United Methodist Church for over thirty years where they lived their faith openly through prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. For the last three years, they have continued being active in the congregation of La Grange United Methodist Church. Dedicated to the church fundraisers, Ken had his hand in helping prepare green beans, 50 gallons at the time, and grilling three hundred chickens on the grill, always willing to serve in any capacity. Ken was a true disciple of Jesus and an asset to his church family.
Following his career in the United States Army, Ken continued serving his neighbors through work in Emergency Management during Hurricane seasons.
Ken is survived by his wife of nearly fifty-three years, Susan Christopher Davis; daughter, Anna Ashline and husband Corey; grandchildren, Afton and Noah; sisters-in-law, Jean Blackwell (Michael Singer) and Cindy Christopher; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Ken’s memory to Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 107 Handley Park Court, Goldsboro, NC 27534; or La Grange United Methodist Church, 213 S. Caswell Street, La Grange, NC 28551.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
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