Mr. Robert Lee Davis , affectionately known as "Robert Lee" by his family and "R.L." by his coworkers, was born on May 27, 1943, in Sumter, South Carolina, to the late George Davis and Inez Cooke Davis. On October 10, 2025, Robert peacefully transitioned from this life to life eternal.

Robert was a man of unwavering faith. He attended Greater Walter's AME Zion Church during his early years and later united with Gethsemane Baptist Church in Newport News, Virginia, where he remained a faithful member for over twenty years. At Gethsemane, he was actively involved in the Men's Ministry, regularly attended the Men's Breakfast, and joyfully lifted his voice as a devoted member of the Male Chorus. Robert was a true worshipper who loved the Word of God and could often be found in service with a smile and a song.

A proud graduate of George Washington Carver High School, Class of 1962, Robert furthered his studies at Norfolk State University. He went on to build a distinguished career at Newport News Shipbuilding, where he served faithfully in the X31 Department as a Master Shipbuilder. His exceptional work ethic and skill led him to travel across the country representing the shipyard in places such as Maine, Georgia, Washington, and Hawaii, which he fondly referred to as his "second home." In every place he visited, Robert left a lasting impression through his sunny disposition, professionalism, and love for witty conversation.

Robert was a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan and an avid follower of local high school football, especially enjoying reruns of Hampton and Phoebus games on Channel 43. In his retirement years, he enjoyed the quiet comforts of home, content in the company of family and the memories of a life well lived.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, George and Inez Davis; siblings, Mary Kelly (Mae), Inez Tilton (Peaches), George Davis Jr. (Bubba), James Ronnie Davis, and Eugene Davis; former spouse, Edna Pressley Davis; and former mother-in-law, Edna Mobley.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: one son, Carl "Jerome" Davis (Audrey); two grandchildren, Kory Davis and Kyla Davis; one great-grandson, Aiden Coleman; siblings, Jack Davis, Mike Davis (Sharon), Joyce Davis, and Helen Davis; devoted friend, Alice Rogers; and a host of loving family members and dear friends.

Viewing will be held Sunday, October 19, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, Va. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m.  Monday, October 20, 2025 at Gethsemane Baptist Church, 5405 Roanoke Avenue, Newport News, Va. Interment will follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens.