Windell Eugene "Gene" Davis, 89 years old, departed this life to be with the Lord on July 13, 2012 at the VA hospital in Fayetteville after a short battle with cancer.

Gene was born March 8, 1923 at Denver, Arkansas to William Jay Davis and Grace May (Brawley) Davis who precede him in death.

Windell is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ida Maxine (Lay) Davis. Son, Larry Davis and wife Linda; Daughter, Sandra Friend; Daughter, Emma Bouch and husband Gary; Son, Steve Davis and wife Allison; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

"Gene" was in General Patton's 4th Armored Division, during WWII, as a tank driver. He landed on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day, and fought in five campaigns, Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes and Central European. During his tour, he lost 5 tanks and was the only survivor in one. Near the end of the war he was wounded while in a Jeep. For his service he was awarded five Bronze Stars for the above campaigns, and a Purple Heart when he was wounded. He was also awarded good Conduct Medal and Distinguished Unit Badge.

Gene was a logger in his younger years. He loved being outdoors and the solitude of the forest. In the fifties, he became a homebuilder until his retirement. In retirement he spent his days, daylight till dark, farming.

Visitation was Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at Coffman Funeral Home Chapel in Harrison, Arkansas.

Service was Thursday, July 19, 2012 at Crossroads Community Church in Harrison with Brother Johnny Walters officiating.

Burial followed at Maplewood Cemetery.

Pallbearers were be Scot Matlock, Scott Tucker, Brandon Miller, Craig Martin, Dan Benton and Marcus Thompson.

Honorary pallbearers were Paul Marquis, Grover Downes and Chris Wade.

A special thanks to the staff at the North Arkansas Regional Medical Center Emergency Room and the VA Medical Center at Fayetteville.

Memorials may be sent to Yokum Cemetery Maintenance, 8111 HWY 103 N., Green Forest, Arkansas 72638.

Online condolences may be left at www.coffmanfh.com