Ernest Eugene “Gene” Davis, of Eddyville, Iowa, passed away on July 2, 2026 at the VA Hospital in Iowa City. Born in Oskaloosa, Iowa on December 31, 1942 to Ernest Frank and Wanda Irene (Tallman) Davis. Gene lived a life dedicated to hard work, his beloved bees, and his family. A proud graduate of Eddyville High School, class of 1961, Gene served his country with distinction in the Navy during the Vietnam era. Following his service, he returned to his hometown and embarked on a career with the Chicago Northwestern Railroad after John Morrell closed. When that chapter ended, he found joy driving a school bus for the Eddyville School District for many years.
In addition to his formal work, Gene was a passionate beekeeper for over half a century, operating his “Busy Bee Honey & Clock Shop” where he also exercised his talent for clock repair. Even during his last days in the hospital, he continued to sell his honey to the nurses. His dedication to his bees was only matched by his commitment to his family. A fixture at local farmers markets, Gene also enjoyed mushroom hunting in his younger years and coon hunting with his father.
He is survived by his son, Robert Eugene Davis; siblings, Patricia Kent, Peggy Johnston, Paul Davis, Jim (Sharon) Davis, Roger (Jennifer) Davis, Andy (Sandi) Davis, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Wanda Davis; brother, Frank Davis; and niece, Carrie Fisher.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, opening to the public at 3:00 pm at the Eddyville Celebrate Life Center, 216 Walnut Street, Eddyville, Iowa, 52553, and family will be present from 5-7 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 10:30 am at the Eddyville Community Church with Pastor Rodney Stodghill officiating, 1001 Main St, Eddyville, Iowa, 52553. Memorials have been established to the family to be directed later.
We encourage those who knew and loved Gene to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. His life was rich and full, and everyone he touched has a story to share about the man with a love for bees, clocks, and his community.
