Richard L. Davies

Richard L. Davies, 79, of Cocoa, FL passed away at Alliance Aultman Hospital on September 12, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born in Alliance, OH on January 22, 1947 to the late Richard B. and Dorothy R. (Mulinix) Davies.

Dick was a 1965 graduate of West branch high school. He enlisted in the United States Navy shortly after high school and served his country for two tours during Vietnam and received an honorable discharge.

After his time with the Navy, he returned home and shortly after married the love of his life, Lavonda Davies. They raised their family in Ohio before uprooting to Florida, where they spent most of their lives together.

He was a skilled Crawler Mechanic for the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where he played a vital role in NASA's historic missions to Space by working on The Crawlers throughout his career.

He was a member of the American Legion. After retiring, he maintained his love of working with his hands by restoring classic American cars and the need for speed with drag racing. He loved wood working and most importantly time spent attending his grandchildren's sporting events.

Preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Melissa Gayle in 2016; his wife, LaVonda (Call) Davies in 2017; a brother-in-law, Bill McCauley in 2018; sisters, Jill McCauley in 2022 and Sharon Griffiths in 2025; along with his grandson Marshal Christopher Long Jr in 2025.

Those left to cherish his memories are significant other, Karen Willard; his daughters, Tracie (Rick) Deakins and Niki (John) Smith; son, Rich (Shani) Davies II; sisters, Lynette (Delmar) Isreal and Beth (Martin) Cagney; seven grandchildren, Ricky Deakins, Meghan Deakins, Alyssa Session, Anthony Session Jr, John Smith Jr, Austin Davies and Shelby Davies; two great grandchildren, Mahlia Session and Kenzli Martin; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of life held at Union Avenue Methodist Church on Sunday, September 20th from 3:00-5:00 p.m.

A second celebration of life and veteran memorial will be held in Florida at a later date.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the Kinser family nephew, Tyler, Jenni-Jo, and sons Will and Zac for always being there for him.