Wade R. Davis III, of Branford, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at the age of 78.
Born on March 3, 1946, Wade was the son of Herdis (Neilsen) Davis and Wade R Davis II. He spent the majority of his life in Durham, Connecticut, alongside his beloved wife of 55 years, Jane Davis.
Wade was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Judith (Davis) Falls. He proudly served his country as a United States Navy veteran during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he worked for many years as an ironworker, specializing in bridge construction, skyscraper buildings and mastering the art of welding. Earlier in life, Wade graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in New Haven, Connecticut, and pursued his passion for cooking as a chef in New York.
Wade found great joy in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He cherished vacations in the Caribbean with his wife, where they enjoyed exploring and scuba diving together. He was also a member of the Raccoon Club in Durham, where he spent time hunting and fishing. Wade will be remembered as a generous, loving husband, father and grandfather, always ready to lend a helping hand.
He is survived by his wife, Jane (Badali) Davis of Branford; his son, Wade R Davis IV of Columbia; his daughters, Michelle Davis of Branford; Jenny (Davis) Bonelli and husband Vinnie of Cromwell; his grandchildren, Alyssa and Tyler; and his brother, Mills Davis and wife Janice of Pensacola, Florida.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 21st. Family and friends may call on Tuesday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church Street, Middletown. A Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Notre Dame Church, 272 Main Street, Durham. Burial will take place at Mica Hill Cemetery in Durham, with full military honors.
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