Lonnie Dean Davidson Jr., 80, passed away on October 30, 2026. Born on August 9, 1946, in Monroe, North Carolina, he was the son of Bertha Elizabeth Harris and Lonnie Dean Davidson Sr. A lifelong son of Union County, Dean grew up in the community he would always call home, graduating from Monroe High School in 1964.

Following high school and two years studying Business Administration at Pfeiffer College and Wingate University, Dean proudly served in the United States Navy from April 1966 to April 1972. During his years of service, he spent time in Newport, Rhode Island and Guam, an experience he fondly remembered and enjoyed sharing stories about throughout his life.

After his military service, Dean returned to Monroe and began building his career at Monroe Uniform Rental and then USCO. He later pursued a career in real estate with Keller Williams Realty, where he worked for 15 years before retiring.

Outside of work, Dean found joy in the things that made life meaningful. He was an active member of Central United Methodist Church in Monroe, where he enjoyed singing in the choir. He loved spending time in the kitchen and at the grill, cooking for family and friends and bringing people together around the table. He enjoyed traveling, watching golf, cheering on UNC and University of Texas football, following ACC basketball, and watching baseball, with the St. Louis Cardinals being his favorite team. In his later years, he especially enjoyed attending UNC baseball games. But above all else, his greatest joy was simply being with his family and spending time with his grandchildren.

Dean was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, sense of humor, love of family, and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him. Whether gathered around the dinner table, enjoying a family trip, or cheering on his favorite teams, Dean had a way of making ordinary moments special.

Dean and his beloved wife, Donica Nesbit Davidson, made their home in Waxhaw, North Carolina, for 40 years before moving to Raleigh in 2021, where they shared the next five years together.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bertha Elizabeth Harris and Lonnie Dean Davidson Sr.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Donica Nesbit Davidson; his daughter, Deana Hicks (Dave); his stepson, Shann Rushing (Jennifer); his brother, Tommy Davidson; and his five cherished grandchildren, Peyton Hicks, Colin and Caroline Rushing, and Jackson and Sloane Attride. He is also survived by his nephews, Brent and Glen Davidson, along with extended family and many dear friends.

Dean’s love for his family, his faith, and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A service celebrating Dean’s life will be held on Saturday, November 14, at Central United Methodist Church, located at 801 S. Hayne Street in Monroe, NC. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM in Central Hall, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM in the Sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com

Gordon Funeral Service & Crematory is honored to be entrusted to care for the Griffin Family.