April 18, 2023
Mr. Gerald Ivan Davis, 64, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. Born on March 16, 1959, in Petersburg, Virginia, he was the son of the late Percy, Jr., and Geraldine Armstrong Davis.
A graduate of Petersburg High School, Gerald initially pursued his passion for music as a guitarist in local bands, inspired by legendary artists such as Jimi Hendrix. While attending Virginia State University, he honed his vocal skills, earning both a Bachelor of Music and a Master of Music in vocal performance. A gifted writer, Gerald also received a Master of Fine Arts degree in Screenwriting from the American Film Institute Conservatory in Los Angeles, California.
During his 25-year tenure at FedEx, Gerald became known as the “Whisperer” for his exceptional ability to assist clients with resumes, presentations, reports, brochures, and portfolios. He also scored music for several projects over the years. Nevertheless, Gerald’s love of music performance drew him back to the stage again and again. As a lead vocalist, guitarist, and harmonica player for the cover band Aquarius, he helped recreate the iconic sounds of the 1960s for audiences across Southern California. Although he sang the tunes of Sly Stone and Roy Orbison, Gerald was best known for channeling Jimi Hendrix, even playing the guitar with his teeth and behind his back. In recent years, he was the lead vocalist and guitarist for the band AbSOULute, which masterfully fused Soul, Funk, R&B, and Classic Rock with a powerful brass section. Additionally, Gerald served as Road Manager for Johnny Rivers.
A member of Zion Baptist Church in Petersburg, Virginia, Gerald always returned to warm welcomes. He was a compassionate and considerate man, displaying a gentle, quiet spirit that provided reassurance to many. His analytical mind and sense of humor gave us a one-of-a-kind take on the world around us.
Gerald’s memory will be cherished by his brother, Percy L. Davis III (Sharon); sisters, Camille Davis Thornton and Sareese E. Davis; niece, Elaina N. Davis; aunt, Muriel Wilkerson; cousins, Randolph Harrison (Angela), Garland Wilkerson Sr. (Jennifer), Phyllis Wright, Pamela Sutton, Robin Wimbush, Robert Armstrong III (Carla), Bettye Wilkerson, and Phillip Jackson; goddaughter, Tiffany Massey; and a special thanks to his loyal friend, Connie Early. He will also be fondly remembered by numerous relatives, friends, and fellow musicians on both the East and West coasts.
A memorial service will be held 3:00 P.M., Saturday, July 22, 2023, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA.
J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.