Edward Lee Davis

Edward Lee Davis, 92, of Columbus, IN, passed away Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Columbus Regional Hospital. Lee was born in Williamsburg, KY on December 15, 1933 to Simon Grant Davis and Lottie Jane Arp Davis. He married Betty Joan Griffin.

Lee served honorably in the United States Army with the 4th Armored Division beginning around 1952. His military service took him to Austria, Casablanca, Morocco, Italy, and Germany, where he answered the call of duty with courage and commitment. His service reflected a deep sense of responsibility and patriotism, and it remained an important part of his identity throughout his life.

Following his military service, Lee devoted 33 years to Cummins Engine Company, where he retired after a long and faithful career. He was respected for his steady work ethic and dependable presence, and he took pride in the years he spent contributing to the company and the people around him. His long tenure stood as a testament to his perseverance and dedication.

Lee remained closely connected to fellow veterans and was an active member of several organizations, including the Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard, VFW Post 1987, American Legion Post 24, Columbus Amvets Post 509, and 40 & 8 Grande du Indiana. Through these associations, he continued to honor his fellow servicemen and support the traditions and values he held dear. His involvement reflected both his loyalty to those who served and his enduring respect for military history and remembrance.

He also took pride in his family heritage, knowing that his grandfathers had served in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. That legacy of service was meaningful to him and connected him to generations of Americans who helped shape the nation. Lee carried that history with humility and honor.

In his personal life, Lee enjoyed photography. He appreciated the opportunity to capture moments, scenes, and memories through his lens, and this interest gave him a creative outlet that complemented his thoughtful nature. Photography allowed him to observe the world with care and attention, qualities that were evident in many aspects of his life.

Survivors include his son, Anthony (Sheila) Davis of Columbus, IN; brothers, Gordon (Shirley) Davis of Columbus, IN, Donald (Renny) Davis of Seymour, IN, Thomas (Anne) Davis of Greenwood, IN; grandchildren, Lindsay (Robert) Jordan, Natasha (Neal) Krupa, Isabel (Kolby) Mitchell, Dylan (Kaelen) Davis, Devan Davis and; great-grandchildren, Lydia Jordan and Layton Jordan, Milo Davis; daughter-in-law, Lynnetta “Nita” Davis.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Simon and Lottie Davis; wife, Betty Davis; sons, Mark Davis and Larry Davis; daughter, Deborah Davis; brothers, Roy Davis, Raymond Davis and Carl Davis; sisters, Lucille Hurd, Ruth Pittsley, Ethel Winebrenner and Betty Lou Davis.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 19, 2026 at Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory with Pastor Randall Burton officiating. Calling hours will be from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Burial will be held at Bethel Baptist Cemetery with military honors provided by the Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation through the funeral home.