Billy Wayne Davis

Billy Wayne Davis, 80, passed away on October 31, 2025, surrounded by his wife and two girls. He was born in Freer, Texas, on October 25, 1945. Billy spent his early years in Alice, Texas, later moving to Carrizo Springs, Tx and graduating from Carrizo Springs High School in 1964. He attended Southwest Texas State University, where he met his future wife, Lou Ann Smith. The two married on January 24, 1970, and shared a lifetime of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. While in college, Billy also proudly served in the Air Force Reserve and was a counselor at Gary Job Corps. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Agriculture.

In 1971, Billy and Lou Ann moved to Premont, Texas, where they started their family. Their daughters, Shannon (born in 1971) and Stacy (born in 1976), were his pride and joy.

He was a salesman for Central Soya Feed, where his drive, charisma, and ability to connect with people helped him earn numerous top salesman awards. His sales territory covered much of Texas and Mexico. During his sales career there were other agricultural businesses he represented.

Later, he transitioned into contract sales within the oil field industry.

Billy’s true passion was ranching. What began with just two calves—famously hauled home by removing the backseat of his company car—grew into a successful operation of registered Beefmaster and crossbred cattle. The ranch in Freer became a cherished gathering place for family and friends, filled with laughter, memories, and long-standing traditions like the D&D Roundup.

Billy was known as the “life of the party” and never met a stranger. He had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and always had a story to tell. His legacy of hard work, humor, and love for family and friends will live on in all who knew him. When his daughters married, he was thrilled to gain the sons he never had.

Billy is survived by his loving wife, Lou Ann Davis; his daughters, Shannon Coldeway (Justin) and Stacy Bowers (Mike); four grandchildren who were his greatest joy — Davis Coldeway, Reese Coldeway, Lawson Bowers, and Tanner Bowers; and his sister, Phyllis Cooper along with many nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents Lorene and Aubrey Davis, two brothers, Jimmy Davis and Bobby Davis.

Please join the family on November 21, 2025 at 11:30 am for a Graveside Service at Premont Cemetery. Followed by a Celebration of Life, food and fellowship at Vernon's Cafe.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Premont Cactus 4-H Club, PO Box 1369, Premont, Tx 78375-1369.

I Am Free

Don’t grieve for me for now I’m free,

I’m following the path God laid for me. 

I took his hand when I heard him call, I turned my back and left it all

I could not stay another day,

To laugh, to love, to work or play

asks left undone must stay that way,

I’ve found that peace at the close of day

If my parting has left a void,

Then fill it with remembered joy

A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,

Ah yes, these things I too will miss

Be not burdened with times of sorrow,

I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow

My life’s been full, I’ve savored much,

Good friends, good times, my loved one’s touch

If my time seemed all too brief,

Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief

Lift up your heart, rejoice with me,

God wanted me now, He set me free.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads’ Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com