Julius Russell Davis

Mr. Julius Russell Davis, age 65 of Hendersonville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. He was born in Carthage, Tennessee on February 18, 1960. He is preceded in death by his parents J.B. and Helen Irene Hamlet Davis, beloved grandparents, aunts and uncles. He is survived by his daughter Heather Zappone (Dustin), his son Russ Davis, his former wife Diana Davis, his sister Darlene Fariss, niece Jennifer Burton (Rusty), nephew Chris Fariss (Jill) and a host of beloved great nieces, nephews, cousins and family. Russell “Big Russ” had a personality that was as big as he was and that was reflected in all areas of his life. He was a proud graduate of Hume Fogg High School where he learned the print press industry and went to work for Capitol Engraving right after graduation. Russell loved to learn and was incredibly smart. As technology developed, he adapted well and embraced the shift of his career into the IT field. Later, he joined HCA where he found a community of wonderful people that helped him grow personally and professionally. As a boy, he came to know Jesus as his Lord and Savior and faithfully attended church with his family. He continued to serve as he got married and had his own children as Deacon and then later as a teacher and leader in the youth group as his children got older. Russell loved the Lord. He would often take a drive while listening to praise and worship and spending time in prayer. For many years, Russell was a dedicated baseball coach for his son and his teammates, continuing to nurture Russ’s skills and love for the game long after his coaching tenure ended. Though his teams enjoyed several undefeated seasons, he valued most the opportunity to mentor and help those young men grow. He was a wonderful cook and passed that love down to his daughter. There were many moments in the kitchen cooking together and talking about life that Russell cherished. Thanksgiving was always full of taste testing, laughing and catching up in the kitchen, which was always the heart of the home for him. Russell was an avid sports fan and loved college football, particularly Alabama Crimson Tide. There are many game day memories for him and his family enjoying time together and watching football. As a kid, he played several sports – baseball, basketball and football. He enjoyed the challenge of the game but also the comradery with other athletes. He cherished the memories of family vacation with Diana, Heather and Russ and would frequently reminisce about the moments of fun and laughter years later. The beach was his happy place, and he enjoyed being able to take in God’s creation while creating memories with his family. He will be deeply missed by all who know him. His quick wit, kind heart, and those unforgettable blue eyes brightened every room he entered. Though his dad jokes will no longer make us roll our eyes and laugh, his love, wisdom, and humor will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched. A visitation will be held on Friday, November 21 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., with a Celebration of Life to follow at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church Hendersonville located at 106 Bluegrass Commons Blvd., Hendersonville, TN 37075. Burial will be held on Saturday, November 22 at 11:00 a.m. at Gordonsville Cemetery located at 34 Hickman Hwy, Gordonsville, TN 38563. At the request of the Davis family, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Celebrate Recovery @ give.tithe.ly/, or to the Humane Society of Sumner County, P.O. Box 2412, Hendersonville, TN 37077 or @ sumnerhumane.org/page3.

Julius Russell Davis

February 18, 1960 - November 13, 2025