Theodore "Ted" Davis

Theodore T. “Ted” “Teddy” Davis, beloved father, grandfather, brother, veteran, mentor, and faithful servant of God, passed away on June 2, 2026. Born on July 10, 1939, to the late Theodore Sherman and Leona Davis, Ted lived a life defined by faith, service, integrity, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. He was raised in Lockefield Gardens off of Indiana Avenue. Teddy attended elementary school at St. Bridget’s Catholic School. He attended Cathedral High School his freshman year when it was an all-boys school before transferring and graduating from Scecina Memorial High School. During his high school years, he participated in cross-country track. He had a passion for art and could often be found drawing. Some of our fondest memories were of him helping with drawings or art work needed for school projects. He was baptized at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church. He found his home at Holy Angels Catholic Church where he was a member for more than 55 years. During his tenure he wore many hats serving as head of many committees to include the Usher Board, Parish Council, Festival Planning Committee, Maintenance Committee, the Eucharist Committee, and Knights of Peter Claver (Grand Knight, 3rd Degree and Navigator 4th Degree). Teddy also was a member of ICC Indianapolis Central Committee, Indianapolis Ten Point Coalition, and American Legion Post 249. Where there was a need, he was ready to fill it. Teddy met the love of his life, Beatrice Strayhorn, in 1958. They were united in holy matrimony at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church on April 20, 1963, while he was serving in the United States Army. To this union two daughters were born, Shalonda Lynn and Stacia Lynette. Together they built a lasting legacy grounded in faith, commitment, and family lasting over 55 years. Ted worked for Eli Lilly and Company for 37 years as a press operator in the pharmaceutical division before retiring in June of 2001. Teddy also ran a part time cleaning business with his father where they cleaned the Indianapolis Water Company at night after working his full-time job. One of his proudest accomplishments was his 44 years of sobriety. He was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous Stepping Stones meetings where he served as the secretary/treasurer for over 40 years. Known for his wisdom, kindness, sense of humor, and generosity of spirit, Ted impacted countless lives. He was a mentor to many, offering encouragement, guidance, and support to family members, friends, colleagues, and members of his community. His ability to listen, teach, and inspire left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Ted will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his dedication to his family, his commitment to service, and the genuine care he showed to others throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so freely. He was preceded in death by his beloved, wife, Beatrice, by his parents, Theodore S. and Leona Davis, and sister, Deanna Rosalie. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Shalonda Davis Fernandes (John) and Dr. Stacia Davis Hill (David); his grandsons, Zane, Zyon, and Isaiah; sisters, Vicki Bebley (Ronald) and Bonita Davis; brother, Roderick Davis (Patricia); godson, Marques Rattler, lifelong friends, “The Roadmasters” Claybron (Skipper) Walker and Lonnie Walker along with a host of extended family members, dear friends, church family, and all those who were blessed to know and love him. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him. A visitation will be held at Holy Angels Catholic Church, 740 W. 28th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208, on June 10, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at Holy Angels Catholic Church, 740 W. 28th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208, on June 10, 2026, beginning at 12:00 pm.