Norman Ray Davison, 82, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Norman was born on December 22, 1943 on a rural Dallas County dairy farm near Long Lane, Missouri to Milton Warren and Goldie Ann (Richardson) Davison. He was united in marriage to his wife of 55 years, Benita “Sam” (Hill) Davison, on August 16, 1970 at Pisgah Baptist Church in Long Lane.
Norman graduated from Buffalo High School in 1961. After graduation, Norman worked at his brother’s shoe store in Nevada, Missouri. In addition, he joined the Army National Guard out of Camp Clark and later transitioned to Active Duty Army. During the Vietnam war, Norman was a medic stationed in Pennsylvania. Although Norman witnessed many difficult outcomes, the experience built strong connections, and he also received awards for his dedicated skills. Due to his studious ability in the medical setting, Norman was encouraged to attend medical school, but his heart took him in a different direction.
After Norman’s military service and a brief time working in the Florida Keys, he returned home to work for his brother at Davison Shoes. Norman moved to Fayetteville in 1968 to expand the growing company. After Benita was sent to Fayetteville to be trained to open a store in Springfield, Missouri, they fell in love and got married. That “little kid” who he knew as a child was all grown up.
Through the years, Norman became Regional and Vice President of the company while expanding into clothing retail as well. Mr. Dee’s, Davison Shoes, Village Gap, and The Clothes Horse became staples of Northwest Arkansas during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. In addition, Norman oversaw numerous stores across several other states. Through the years, he also received several business awards for sales, management, and advertising. After the last Northwest Arkansas store closed in 1990, Norman went into real estate before driving a truck for about 20 years. Norman was known for his dedicated work ethic, genuine customer service, fashionable style, and warm smile.
Over all else, Norman was a man of faith and family. He was a devoted member and former Sunday School Superintendent of Calvary Baptist Church. Norman also served in the Lion’s Club organization. Family was everything to Norman. As a dedicated father and grandfather, “Papa” cherished every moment with his family. “Papa” adored watching his grandchildren play football, soccer, basketball, bowling, and tennis. Family was Norman’s hobby, and he never wanted to spend any time away from an opportunity to bond with each and every one of his people. The bonds between “Papa” and each grandchild was unique and powerful. In addition, Norman’s “fun uncle” status transitioned into adulthood with precious connections with his nieces and nephews. Norman was a humble mentor who understood the struggles life provided, so his traits established an approachable person full of empathetic, unconditional love.
Survivors include his wife, Benita Davison; two daughters, Crystal Watson (Doug), Nicole DeBriyn (Matt Hickman); seven grandchildren, Coleson Young (Paige), Berklie Young (Tyler – fiancé), Cora Pettus (Derek), Macy Jackson (Baxter), Rugby Young (Hannah), Hunter Young (Gaby – fiancé), Lily Watson; two great-grandchildren; sister, Marjorie Hardtke; sisters-in-law, Betty Davison, Sylvia Davison; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; five older sisters, Elsie McNeley, Ina Marshall, Quintella Douglas, Willa Dean Bates, Darlene Short; two older brothers, Marvin Davison, Donald Davison; son-in-law, Todd DeBriyn.
Visitation will take place on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. at Beard’s Funeral Chapel, 855 S. Happy Hollow Road, Fayetteville, Arkansas. Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, January 31, at 10 a.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 1410 N Porter Road, Fayetteville, Arkansas. A graveside service will follow at 3:30 p.m. in Memorial Gardens Cemetery, North Highway 65 in Buffalo, Missouri.