JULIAN "SKIP" DAVIS, 1946-2017 Skip Davis, devoted husband and loving father and grandfather passed away suddenly July 17, 2017. Skip was an avid outdoor enthusiast and wildlife advocate. He spent his youth playing in the Everglades where he developed an intense love of nature. He married his wife Suzann in 1971. They spent much of their married life raising their family in Ohio, returning to Florida in 1996. Skip was active in the Boy Scouts of America. He spent 30 years as a Boy Scout Leader, leading his troops to multiple awards and successful events over the years. Many of his scouts achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Nothing was more important to Skip than family. He loved the holidays and tried to outdo himself every year over the year before. He was known for spectacular holiday displays, especially at Christmas and Halloween. Neighbors would travel to his home each year to see his lavish decorations. Those who knew him describe him as the kindest man they ever met. Even though Skip had multiple health issues over the years, this never seemed to slow him down. His top priority was always his family and their well-being. Later in life Skip and Suzann took on the responsibility of raising two of their grandchildren, Dylan and Jacob. Skip became their mentor, their caregiver, their father figure. Their lives will be very different without the day to day guidance and support of their grandfather. Skip's relationship with his only granddaughter, Madison, was especially touching. She held a very special place in his heart. She adored her "Pop Pop;" his eyes would light up every time he saw her. Skip's concern for his prematurely born grandson, Lucas, was heartwarming as he spent many hours visiting him in the NICU, cheering him on, and celebrating his successful homecoming. Over the years, friends would often ask Skip how long he and Suzann were married. He always gave the same grinning response, "Not long enough." We who mourn him today completely agree. Skip is survived by his wife Suzann, three adult children, Julianna, Meredith and Rachel, and four grandchildren, Dylan, Jacob, Madison and Lucas. Our lives will never be the same without him. We strive to honor his memory by following his example of putting family always first. Following the service, the family is inviting everyone to please join them for a continuation of the celebration of life of Skip Davis at the family residence starting at 6:00 P.M.
