Joseph Davis

First African-American Fireman for City of White Plains


Joseph Davis, longtime resident of White Plains, N.Y. departed this life on Sunday, November 5, 2017. Born in Sheldon, South Carolina on August 30, 1921, Joe was the eldest of five siblings. Born into the marriage of Bellinger and Amy Brown Davis, he is pre deceased by his parents and siblings, Millie, Ethel, Elsie, and Bellinger Jr. The family moved to White Plains, New York when Joe was 8yrs old where he attended school in the White Plains school district, graduating from White Plains High School.

Shortly after graduation, he entered the Army Air Corp, serving in the 477th Bomber Group, spending time as a support group for the Tuskegee Airmen. He held an exemplary military record and was honorably discharged. After returning home Joe began his firefighting career on April 13, 1949 and became the first African-American firefighter in White Plains. Upon leaving the White Plains Fire Department, he became a Corrections Officer at the Westchester County Penitentiary until he retired in 1984.

Joe married his childhood sweetheart, Elizabeth (Alexander) Davis. To this union was born a daughter, Donna. He also became a stepfather to Carol Clark Spears, when she was only 2 years old. Joe and Betty were also foster parents opening their home and their hearts to two children, Evans Thompson and Robert Jackson (deceased). Among his accomplishments, he was very proud to be a member of the Masons, being elected twice as Worshipful Master at Hiram Lodge F&AM #4 In New York City. He was also elected an honorary member of The Ashanti Club of Connecticut. He became a Boy Scout troop leader when his grandson William joined the scouts in Valhalla, New York. He enjoyed watching sports and listening to jazz, but playing golf was his passion.

Joe was a kind and giving man with a positive attitude toward life. He served his community by delivering food, papers and other things for the elderly and infirm. He was always readily available to assist in any way he could. He loved being with family and friends and was always proud of their successes and accomplishments. Each and every one of them was near and dear to his heart. Joe is pre deceased by his parents, siblings, and 4 grandchildren.

He leaves to cherish fond memories daughters Donna Lewis (Arthur), Carol Clark Spears, and son Evans Thompson; 2 grandchildren: Tracy Spears and Michelle Brown Taylor; 12 great grandchildren, 15 great great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives & friends.



The Entire Staff of Lee's Funeral Home, LLC respects that the family of Joseph Davis entrusted the care of their loved one to us, and that they value the level of service & attention our funeral home provides. We are honored, in turn, to provide comfort, assistance and service to the family of Joseph Davis during their time of bereavement.