Edward Hal Davidson Jr.'s Obituary
Edward Hal Davidson Jr., lovingly known as Hal, was born on August 27, 1946, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Edward Hal Davidson Sr. and Patricia Davidson. He passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of faith, devotion, and friendship that touched countless lives.
Hal graduated from Tuscaloosa High School in May of 1964. He continued his education at Jefferson State Junior College, earning an Associate Degree in Science in 1968. He went on to graduate from the University of Alabama in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in Education, and later earned a Master of Science in Education from Jacksonville State University in 1979.
While attending the University of Alabama, Hal met the love of his life, Elizabeth Davidson, affectionately known as “Rouge.” They were married in November of 1969 and shared 52 devoted years together. When Rouge was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and dementia, Hal lovingly cared for her in their home until her passing in August 2022—a true testament to his unwavering love and commitment.
Hal was preceded in death by his beloved wife Rouge; his parents, Edward Hal and Patricia Davidson; his in-laws Estelle Weir and Robert Weir; his sister, Dorothy “Mickey”; his brothers, George “Tiny” and John “Bo” Davidson, and sister-in-law Jude LeePard.
He will be deeply missed by his daughters, Leah Smith (Dewayne) and Nicole Stansell (Scott); his cherished grandchildren, Madison Hayes (Zack), Noah (Katie), Tucker, and Henry Smith, and Emma, Claire, and Stella Stansell. Hal was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his first great-grandchild, Jaime Hayes, expected in February. He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Patricia “Skip” Davidson and Margaret “Peggy” Davidson, along with many nieces and nephews.
A man of deep and abiding faith, Hal was a devoted member of St. James Catholic Church in Gadsden for over 50 years. He also generously gave his time volunteering with the Catholic Center of Concern, living out his faith through service to others.
Hal’s life was strongly shaped by his love of sports, especially basketball, softball and golf. He played basketball in high school and junior college and later shared his passion as a coach at Etowah, Litchfield, and Talladega High Schools, as well as Gadsden State Community College. In his adult years, Hal developed a love for golf and was a member of BriarMede Golf Course. Before retiring to care for his wife, he also worked at Twin Bridges Golf Course in Gadsden. A lifelong Alabama fan, Hal proudly cheered on the Crimson Tide. Many were surprised—and delighted—by his love of dancing, particularly “Bop” dancing to his favorite music from the 1950s and 1960s.
Most recently, Hal moved to Monark Grove in Birmingham to be closer to family. True to his nature, he quickly made friends and embraced all the activities Monark had to offer, especially Bingo. Though his time there was brief, his kindness and warmth left a lasting impression on his new friends.
Hal’s life will be celebrated and honored with a Memorial Mass on Friday, January 9, at 1:00 p.m. at St. James Catholic Church in Gadsden, Alabama. A lunch will follow in the parish hall.
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