HERBERT DAVIS

DAVIS
HERBERT U.

Passed away peacefully at his home Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2018. He was 99 years old, born on the Fourth of July 1919. He is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Elma (nee Gwirtz), and his three children Debra (Stanley), Fran (Jim) and Howard (Barbara), his seven grandchildren, Leslie (Ben), Jill, Jeff (Jordan), Lisa, Sara (Adam), Amanda (Jake) and Eliza, as well as five great grandchildren, Kylie, Henry, Blake, Ryan and Georgia.
He was a World War II veteran, enlisting the day after Pearl Harbor, and serving as a navigator in the Air Force in Europe. After the war, he was introduced to the most important person in his life, Elma, whom he married on November 2, 1947.
Forming a partnership with his wife's father, Jay Gwirtz, he embarked on a 60 plus-year career as a professional probate genealogist. Elma worked by his side throughout his career, traveling internationally, corresponding and working with other probate genealogists across the globe. He was a nationally recognized expert in his field and spoke frequently at prestigious probate and trust conferences. He was highly respected by probate court judges and trustees, and his proofs were regarded as the top in his field. Most of all, he was known for his integrity. Genealogy was not just a job, it was a calling, and he stayed with it until he was 85. His daughter, Fran, joined the practice in 1975, and continues his legacy today.
But he was much more than just a genealogist. His first love was his family, of whom he was extremely proud and devoted. They were truly his life.
A private Graveside Service for family members will be held Wednesday, Nov. 21st, and a Shiva will be held at 3 P.M. at 100 Breyer Drive, Elkins Park, in the building's Social Room on the first floor. Contributions in his memory may be made to either Abramson Senior Care or a charity of the donor's choice.

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