George Morris Davis, 84, of Maryville, IL, peacefully passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Shiloh, IL. He was born on July 31, 1941, in Granite City, IL, to the late Burnell and Frieda Verla (née Morris) Davis.

George earned his master's degree in education from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and dedicated his career to serving others as a special education teacher, retiring after 28 years of service. He volunteered as a Southern Illinois Special Olympics coach at East St. Louis Senior High School and was a Certified Volleyball Official for the Missouri High School Activities Association and the Illinois High School Association for 36 years. George loved all creatures and had a traveling spirit. He was an advocate for animal rescue and the humane treatment of mankind. His favorite excursions were New York City, Florida, and Caribbean cruises where he created unforgettable memories with his friends and family.

He is survived by his loving husband, Michael R. Dean, whom he married on June 17, 2011; three children, Megan Welzbacher of Belleville, IL, Meredith Davis-Dean of Edwardsville, IL, and Zachary (Amy) Davis of Collinsville, IL; two sisters, Barbara (Franc) Richardson of Kinderhook, NY, and Beverly (Gerald) Ahrens of Glen Carbon, IL; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and multiple fosters and adopted children that will always call him Dad.

Visitation will be on Monday, November 10, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville, IL. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m., with Rev. Ron Habermehl officiating. Graveside services will take place immediately after at Sunset Hill Cemetery in Glen Carbon, IL.

Memorials are suggested to the Metro East Humane Society and will be received at the visitation or can be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.