Bobbie “Bob” Davis

Bobbie Dean “Bob” Davis, a dedicated public servant, educator, and pillar of the Ohio agricultural community, passed away July 16, 2026, at the age of 92. A man of tireless energy and deep-rooted commitment to his home state, Bob leaves behind a legacy of community development, educational leadership, and a lifelong passion for the land.

Born on May 10, 1934 in Mt. Pleasant, Ohio to Delbert P. and Frieda B. Davis. He was a proud 1952 graduate of Union Furnace High School. He went on to attend The Ohio State University, where he earned his B.S. in Animal Science in 1957, served on the Meat Judging Team, and was an active member of Alpha Gamma Sigma Fraternity. In 1967, his thirst for knowledge took him to the University of Maryland, where he earned his M.S. in Extension Education.

Bob’s career with Ohio State Extension spanned over three decades. He began as a 4-H Agent in Washington County before serving as an Extension Agent and Chair in Vinton County. He spent the final 18 years of his career in Hamilton County as an Extension Agent and Chair, specializing in Agriculture and Community & Natural Resource Development. He retired in 1988 as Associate Professor Emeritus from The Ohio State University.

Bob’s professional influence was felt nationally. He served as President of the Ohio Cooperative Extension Agents’ Association and as President of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA). His many accolades included the Distinguished Service Award from the NACAA and the Distinguished Alumni Award from the OSU College of Agriculture.

Beyond his professional life, Bob was a man of action in his community. He proudly served as a volunteer firefighter with the McArthur Fire Department, chaired his church board of trustees, and served as a member of the Ewing Grange for over 75 years. He and his late wife operated the Country Pleasures Bed & Breakfast, and Bob was instrumental in numerous Vinton County initiatives, including serving as founding President of the Convention & Visitors’ Bureau and President of the Herbert Wescoat Memorial Library.

In his later years, Bob found immense joy in the simple pleasures of rural life. He oversaw 400+ acres of forest and farmland and spent nearly every “good weather” day at his farm. An avid collector of antique tractors, he owned several John Deeres and was a contributing member of several antique tractor clubs, enjoying participating in local parades and the comradery and deep fellowship within the groups.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Janet S. Davis; his parents, Delbert and Frieda; and his brothers Clark, Don, and Jim.

He is survived by his daughter, Terrie (Todd) Bodey of South Vienna, Ohio; his son, Mark (Rhonda) Davis of Columbus, Georgia; and his cherished granddaughter, Allison of Columbus, Georgia. He also leaves behind his sister, Marilyn (Bob) Jepsen; his sister-in-law Jan (Jim) Davis; and a large community of nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A service to honor Bob’s life will be held at Heinlein-Brown Funeral Home in Logan, Ohio, with calling hours on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 6 to 8 P.M. and Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 10 A.M. till funeral services at 11 A.M. with Rev. Dr. Randy Hardman officiating. Burial will follow at New Fairview Memorial Gardens, Rockbridge, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ohio 4-H Foundation (https://ohio4h.org/give-now), a cause close to Bob’s heart throughout his entire life.

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