Jack Steven Davis, devoted father of Trudi Davis, Becky Rosazza, Bridgette Davis, and Margaret Davis, and son of the late John J. Davis and Blondena L. Ward, died on Sept. 24, 2026. Born on Aug. 29, 1949, Jack was a proud graduate of the North Scott High School Class of 1967. Jack was married first to Dot Kohler and later to Cindi Davis, with whom he remained friends long after their divorces. Jack took pride in being a dad and grandfather, and in his work as both a union meat packer at Oscar Mayer and later a custodian at St. Ambrose University. Jack’s work ethic and commitment to providing for his family were admirable.
Jack found joy in daily activities: reading the paper, enjoying beers with friends, watching the sunset, playing solitaire, caring for his yard, and watching old sitcoms. However, nothing lit Jack up like a party. Whether it was his granddaughter Claire’s birthday bowling party, card club, a Hawkeye Bowl Game, or a friend’s celebration, Jack was ready to contribute with snacks, drinks, a wide smile, golden oldies music, and often some kind of silly costume, yard game, or goofy gag. Whether ready or not, Jack had a hug and a beer ready for all —always a party in a tiny, little cooler!
Jack consistently contributed to his community. He served as a town councilor in Donahue, coached his daughters’ sports teams, served on the Donahue Sportsmen’s and Lions Clubs, and often made time to help neighbors in times of need. He also accepted help and support from caring neighbors and friends on Colorado Street in Davenport, in Donahue, and in DeWitt.
Jack is predeceased by his parents John J. Davis and Blondena L. Davis-Ward (nee Cowell), stepfather Harley Ward, as well as his brothers Ted and Allen Ward, sister Pamela Campbell, and ex-wife, Cynthia C. Davis. He is survived by daughters Trudi Davis (Mike and Claire Edwards) of Iowa City; Becky Rosazza of Iowa City; Bridgette Davis (Ellen Sale) of Hadley, Mass.; and Margaret Davis (Julian and Sidney Guidry) of Rock Island; sister Linda Haymaker of East Moline; and brother Mike Davis (Rosalie) of Danville. He is remembered and loved by several nieces and nephews and many wonderful life-long friends.
His family would like to extend gratitude to the staff at Grand Haven Retirement Community and at Heartland Hospice for supporting Jack in maintaining his safety and dignity while living with dementia. We know he wasn’t always easy, but his orneriness often made for a good laugh. We are grateful for the staff’s care, communication, and compassion for both Jack and each member of his family.
Donations can be made in Jack’s honor to either the Rock Island Parks and Recreation Foundation (https://www.riparksfoundation.org/donate-participate) or Community Inclusion Club of Iowa City (https://www.communityinclusionclub.com/donate#donation-tiers). These two organizations will continue to provide fun opportunities for the health and social development of Jack’s grandchildren Claire and Sidney. We thank you, in advance, for your support.
Jack’s visitation will be held from 1–3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 10, at Chambers Funeral Home in Eldridge. A memorial service will begin at 3 p.m. and will be immediately followed by a gathering of friends at Al & Gerry’s.
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