Richard Merrill Davis

   Richard Merrill Davis, age 86, of Alexandria, LA, passed away on May 15, 2023.

   Richard was born on October 5th, 1936, in Mississippi. He would go on to lead an accomplished life and leave behind a legacy that will be remembered by his loving family and friends.
   Richard received his college degree before proudly serving his country as an In Air Refueler Specialist from 1955 to 1959 for B-29s in the United States Air Force. After leaving the military he started his own business specializing in woodworking and construction which catered to Biloxi’s historical homes. He became well respected in the community for his exceptional craftsmanship and skill.
   Richard was passionate about spending time with his family and friends whether getting out on the water with his son Rick or teaching him valuable skills he had learned over the years. In his later years he refurbished older model cars and became a long-standing member of Cruisin' the Coast. Richard never stopped expanding his knowledge base and learning new skills. His interests ranged from draftsmanship, airplane mechanics and yacht carpentry to WWII history and trivia.  He enjoyed reading and learning and never stopped sharing his wisdom and knowledge with his children.
   As a young man, Richard was a champion swimmer for the United States Air Force and enjoyed waterskiing as well as commercial fishing pertaining to his coastal heritage. These were just some of Richard's many accomplishments he was most proud of.

   He enjoyed his retirement by dancing, participating in Cruisin the Coast and spending time with his loving partner, Sylvia Faulkner.  He expressed often how proud he was of his children and grandchildren.  He very much enjoyed his friendships he had made along his way of life.

   He was a member of the Biloxi French Club, Elks Club and the VFW where he was known for his karaoke and dancing. Richard was of the Baptist faith. He loved being around people and never met a stranger. He could light up a room with his personality through his friendliness and jokes.

   Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Tauzin Davis; and his parents, Oscar and Louise C. Davis. He is survived by many loved ones including his loving companion of 18 years, Sylvia Faulkner; his children, daughters, Charlotte (Jeff) Hayes, and Christine L. Davis; son Rick Davis Jr.; brothers, Gene C. Davis (Rebecca), and Freddie G. Davis (Nancy); sister, Trudy E. Davis; and grandchildren, Ashton and Rosie Hayes, Jasmine and Erika Dorothy; and many friends.
   He was loved dearly by all who knew him and will be missed greatly but never forgotten by those who were fortunate enough to have a place in his life. Rest in peace Richard Merrill Davis.

   A graveside service will take place at 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Ave., Biloxi, MS, where he will be laid to rest next to his wife of 38 years. A funeral procession will leave at 1:05 p.m. from Riemann Family Funeral Home, 274 Beauvoir Road, Biloxi, going to Biloxi National Cemetery.

   A Celebration of Life will be held at 6:00 p.m., Friday, June 2, 2023, at the Biloxi French Club.  Please sign the online guestbook, and share your memories, condolences and photos.