Sylvester Davis

In Loving Memory of Sylvester “Baby Syl” Davis

October 1, 1951 – July 26, 2026 

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven." – Ecclesiastes 3:1

With profound sadness and heartfelt gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Sylvester Davis, who peacefully departed this life on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at the age of 74.

Sylvester was born on October 1, 1951, in Eufaula, Alabama, to the late Lonnie Sr. (Lessie) Davis. During his younger years, he lived in Chicago, Illinois, before making Saginaw, Michigan his home, where he built a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and hard work.

Sylvester dedicated 32½ years of faithful service to General Motors – Saginaw Metal Casting Operations before retiring. He earned the respect of his coworkers through his strong work ethic, dependability, and dedication.

To know Sylvester was to love him. He was the life of every gathering and had an incredible gift for making people laugh. His spontaneous humor, lightning-fast comebacks, and perfectly timed jokes would catch everyone off guard, leaving family and friends laughing until their sides hurt. No one was ever safe from one of his playful jokes or witty remarks, and he had a unique way of making every moment memorable. Whether he was dancing, singing, fishing, landscaping, or simply sitting around talking with family and friends, Sylvester found joy every day and made sure everyone around him did too. His smile was contagious, his personality unforgettable, and his laughter filled every room he entered.

Above all else, Sylvester was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, caring uncle, loyal employee, and faithful friend. His greatest pride was his family, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with those he loved.

Sylvester leaves to cherish his precious memory his beloved wife, Diana De La Cruz Davis. He is survived by his children: Antoine Montez (Helen) Davis Sr., Sylvester Lanick Davis, Dante Devon Davis, and Monique Lashae Goodman. He also lovingly raised Christopher Lee De La Cruz, Jessley (Andrew) Allen, and Jessie (Bobbi) Studs Jr.

He leaves behind his sisters Elizabeth Walker and Janie Devose; his brother Johnny (Ruby) Davis, Robert Denson, in-laws, Catherine De La Cruz, Mary De La Cruz, Grace De La Cruz, Frank (Cynthia) De La Cruz, Richard (Cheryl) De La Cruz, Gerard De La Cruz, John McClendon, Lenard (Nora) De La Cruz, Manuel (Ann)De La Cruz, Warnella Wright, and John McClendon, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends, including his special nephew, Cornelius Skipper, and his beloved God-daughter, Shantonya (Marcus) Scott. He also leaves to cherish his memories the mother of his three sons, Lillian Davis.

He was the proud grandfather of Quintoria Weaver, Lauren Davis, Antoine Davis Jr., Jestin Davis, Nicole McCune, Christian Davis, Aumauria De La Cruz, Demetryon De La Cruz, Detravion De La Cruz, Christopher Lee De La Cruz Jr., LaBriea Studs, Markese Southward, and Siena De La Cruz. He was additionally blessed with eight great-grandchildren.

Sylvester was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie Sr. (Lessie) Davis; his beloved aunts, Lillie Bee Wimbley and Henretta (John) Hines; brothers Lonnie (Mary) Davis Jr., William (Sarah) Davis Sr., and Craig F. Denson; sisters Addie (Walter Sr.) Brutley, and Mary Catherine Davis McClendon; brothers-in-law, John Lee Devose, Warner Humphrey Jr., Ernest De La Cruz, Roland De La Cruz; mother-in-law, Alicia Perez; father-in-law, Manuel R. De La Cruz; and grandson, Tavarion Swift.

Although our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family. His stories will continue to be told, his jokes repeated for generations, and his quick-witted snapbacks remembered whenever the family gathers. Every time we laugh together, we will remember him. His love, humor, and legacy will live in our hearts forever.

Sleep peacefully, Dad. Your work here is done; your laughter will never be forgotten, and your love will remain in our hearts forever. Until we meet again, we love you.

“You like that baby?”