Ezra Earl (Bud) Davidson

BURLEY – Ezra Earl (Bud) Davidson, age 96, a former longtime resident of Burley, died March 26, 2014, at his granddaughter’s home in Gilbert, Ariz.

Bud was born to Charles Earl and Lillian Tucker Davidson, on May 6, 1917 in Oakley, Idaho.

Bud was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. A World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy, Bud, was awarded three battle ribbons and two stars for his service in the Asiatic-Pacific, American Theatre and Philippine Liberation.

Bud was married to the love of his life, Marie Arrington Davidson for 72 years. Bud worked in the meat cutting business for 45 years. Bud is remembered for his skill and integrity and remembered by the hundreds of now grown children who came by his meat department and received free Smarties candy.

Bud devoted his life to family and church. Bud and Marie worked tirelessly, for decades, on family history research. He was member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for 80 years, Bud was active in missionary, temple and family history work, and served as a primary teacher into his 85th year.

Bud and Marie lived in Burley, Idaho for 50 years from (1958-2008). As a hobby, Bud raised and trained Arabian horses, and they were remarkably obedient to his soft spoken commands. He loved trail riding and rode in the local hills at every opportunity.

Bud was a gentleman at all times. He had a friendly, outgoing personality and was continuously aware of the needs of others. Most of all, Bud was kind - always.

Bud was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marie; daughter, Deanna; son, Milton Davidson; and grandson, Michael Davidson.

He is survived by sons, Charles “Doc” Davidson of Russellville, Arkansas, and J.D. Davidson, of Spanish Fork, Utah, 15 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; and 20 great- great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, at the Burley LDS Stake Center, 2050 Normal Ave., in Burley, with Bishop Larry Kloepfer officiating. Burial will follow at the Pleasant View Cemetery with military rites provided by the Mini-Cassia Veterans Organization.

Friends may call from 6 until 8 p.m. Friday, April 11, at the Rasmussen Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley, and from 10 until 10:45 a.m. Saturday at the church.