History

James H. Davis Funeral Home celebrates its 92nd anniversary under the leadership of William T. Boyle III, the great-grandson of founder James H. Davis Sr.

James H. Davis Sr. Founder 1884 – 1968	James H. Davis Jr. Past President 1922-2002	Juanita Davis Boyle Past Secretary/Treasurer 1909-2001

In 1913, Davis converted a downtown Owensboro livery stable into a family-run mortuary. With his new enterprise, he also began a family tradition of excellence that would live on for generations.

For more than five decades after his death in 1968, Davis' children James H. Davis Jr. and Juanita Davis Boyle reaffirmed their father's commitment and high standards.

In 1963, the funeral home moved to its state-of-the-art facility at 3009 Frederica St., across from Kentucky Wesleyan College, where it still is located today. Designed all on one level, there are no steps or stairs to climb, providing easy access to everyone, including those with disabilities.

In 1999, it was remodeled and expanded to include two lounges, one smoke-free and the other allowing a comfortable indoor area for smokers. The rooms share a common kitchen area with ample space for storing food and serving snacks or meals.

William T. Boyle III President 1990 graduate Mid-America College of Funeral Service	John Hill Partner / Funeral Director and Embalmer

Today, Billy serves as the fourth-generation owner and president of the family business. A licensed funeral director and embalmer who grew up in the family business, he became the sole owner of the funeral home in late 2004 after the retirement of his cousin Dawson Davis, who had been his partner since 1995. In July 2005, John Hill, a funeral director and embalmer with the funeral home since 1996, became a part owner in the business.

Together Billy and John look forward to leading James H. Davis Funeral Home into the 21st Century with the same pledge to serve families with the caring, personal attention that began with Boyle's great-grandfather nearly 100 years ago.