JAMES "TATOO" DAVIDSON
Thompsonville-James "Tatoo" Davidson, 73, of Thompsonville formerly of Zeigler, passed away peacefully at home with loving and devoted wife of 33 years at his side at 4:37 A.M. on Friday, January 3, 2014.

Services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, January 7, 2014, at Murman & Wilson Funeral Home in Johnston City. Burial will be in the Lakeview Cemetery of Johnston City. Visitation will be from 5:00 P.M to 8:00 P.M. on Monday at the funeral home. Graveside military rites will be conducted by the Marion V.F.W., American Legion, and Illinois Army National Guard.

James was born on February 12, 1940 in Zeigler the son of James Anthony and Wilma (Jarvis) Davidson. He married Darlene (Bell) on November 29, 1980 in Stiritz. She survives.

James was a retired coal miner and a member of the U.M.W.A. He was a police officer and worked at Allen Industries in Herrin for many years. He was a veteran proudly serving in the army. Before becoming ill he loved being outdoors. He especially enjoyed hunting, fishing, and traveling. He enjoyed talking about "the old days", telling stories and recalling events from childhood. He had a sharp mind and loved doing crossword puzzles.

Never really met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone he met. Always willing to help anyone, anytime, anyway he could.

He will be sadly missed.

He is survived by a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Kay Harper and husband Ron of Stiritz; and two special friends, Mike Chekevdia and Jon McKinney.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Phyllis Vannoy; and a brother-in-law, George Bell.

Memorials may be made to the family. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.