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Sanford, Maine
June 26, 1963 – October 14, 2026
Daniel James “Dan” Davis, 63, of Sanford, Maine, passed away on October 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of his children, whom he adored.
Born on June 26, 1963, to John William Davis and Gabrielle Irene Lavalliere, Dan grew up in Saco as one of nine children in a large, close-knit family. With so many brothers and sisters, there was never a shortage of company, conversation, or a little good-natured teasing. Those family bonds stayed with Dan throughout his life, and spending time with the people he loved was always important to him. He graduated from Thornton Academy in 1983 and spent most of his life in the southern Maine community he called home.
Dan was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent 22 years as a bench mechanic at Pratt & Whitney before joining Flemish Master Weavers, where he continued working until his passing.
Outside of work, Dan knew how to enjoy the things that made life good. He loved Maine summers, especially the warm days spent soaking up the sunshine, taking trips down the Saco River, or getting out on his Harley-Davidson to enjoy the open road. And when football season rolled around, you could usually count on finding Dan watching the games with family. A devoted Miami Dolphins fan, he loved his NFL Sundays, and whether his team was winning or losing, there was always something to cheer about, or something to say about the game.
Dan had a generous heart and a sense of humor all his own. Affectionately known to some as “Jibbaman,” he had a knack for making people laugh, often without even trying. Whether he was dramatically announcing that an approaching rainstorm was going to be a “tsunami” or “monsoon,” or hollering his signature “Ongowa!” to get a dog’s attention, Dan had a way of turning everyday moments into stories his family would laugh about for years. His quick wit, familiar expressions, and playful personality were simply part of what made him Dan.
Of all the things Dan enjoyed, nothing meant more to him than his family. He loved traveling to Virginia to visit his eldest son, Kevin, and his family. Dan also shared many special years raising his son Darren and daughter Megan in Kennebunk, where they made countless memories together. In more recent years, he enjoyed spending time with Darren, with whom he shared a home in Sanford, and Megan and her family, who lived nearby. He especially treasured being a grandfather to Connor, Skylar, and Willow. Coming from such a big family himself, Dan also shared close ties with his many siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Whether gathered for a special occasion or simply enjoying an afternoon together, family was a constant in his life.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, John William Davis and Gabrielle Irene Lavalliere; his sister, Rachel Clark; his brother, David Davis; and his stepson, Freeman Hatch.
He is survived by his three children: Kevin Davis and his wife, Kelsey, of Woodbridge, VA, and their son, Connor; Darren Davis of Sanford, ME; and Megan Brown and her husband, Brandon, of Sanford, ME, and their daughters, Skylar and Willow. He is also survived by his stepson, Rob Hatch of Biddeford, ME.
Dan also leaves behind his siblings: Esther Forest (Richard) of Niceville, FL; Stephen Davis of Dayton, ME (and his longtime partner, the late Cindy Bernier); Rebecca Hore (Earnie) of Sabattus, ME; Martha Foley (Emmette) of Havelock, NC; Gabrielle Kittredge (Mark) of Madison, ME; and John Davis of Arundel, ME. He will also be missed by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.
Dan had a way of making ordinary moments memorable, often with a joke, a laugh, or simply by being himself. Those who knew him will always have a story to tell, a memory that brings a smile, or a moment they wish they could relive. He leaves behind so much to remember, so many reasons to smile, and a place in the hearts of his family that will always be his.
A celebration of Dan’s life will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2026, in Lyman, Maine. Family and friends are invited to gather, share their favorite memories, and celebrate Dan in the way he would have appreciated most: together, with plenty of stories and laughter. Additional details regarding the time and location will be announced as arrangements are finalized.
Arrangements by Dobson Family Funeral & Cremation Services