Mr. Thad Eugene Davis

Thad E. Davis, 84, of Lancaster, passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at the Pickering House. He was born June 17, 1927 in New Holland, Ohio and was the son of the late Edgar W. and Edith (Byers) Davis. He was a member of Sixth Ave. Methodist Church and Olivedale Senior Citizens. Thad was an avid runner who ran in 698 competitive races and 16 marathons. An impressive feat considering he didn't start running until age 48. In 1975 he started the Amanda Five Miler, the first road race in Fairfield County. For over 20 years he along with others carried the torch from Lancaster to Amanda at the opening ceremonies for the Amanda Special Olympics. The Thad Davis Relays were organized in 1995 at the Amanda Clearcreek High School and is held anually every spring. In 2007, at age 80, he was a national medal winner in the 5K at the National Senior Olympics in Louisville, Kentucky.
Thad is survived by his children, Sandy Smith of Lancaster, Dr. Tom (Vickie) Davis of Stewart, Ohio and Dan (Melissa) Davis of Chardon, Ohio; eight grandchildren, Michelle, Erin, Matt, Alison, Olivia, Randon, Rustin and Ronald; four great grandchildren, Cassie, Drew, Libby and Jake and one great great granddaughter, Lily; three sisters, Mary King of Mt. Sterling, Betty Wilson and Shirley (Leroy) Mowery both of Lancaster; very special friend, Ruth Watson and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Davis and three brothers, Robert, John and Joe Davis.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the TAYLOR FUNERAL HOME in Amanda with Pastor Rick Jones officiating. Burial will be in Amanda Twp. Cemetery. Friends may call from 6-8 p.m Thursday and 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
The family suggests contributions be made to the Amanda Clearcreek Endowment Fund in Thad's memory.