Joseph Woods Davidson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Woods Davidson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, at Peak Resources Nursing Home in Gastonia, North Carolina, at the age of 91.

He was born on March 1, 1935, in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, to the late Joseph W, and Martha (Thomas) Davidson, where he spent much of his early life. During his youth, Joseph was the quarterback of the Central Cambria High School football team, which remains one of the most successful teams in Cambria County history-a distinction he carried with pride throughout his life.

In 1954, Joseph enlisted in the United States Army and was assigned to the Headquarters Battery of the 10th Antiaircraft Artillery Group during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1956 and received the Good Conduct Medal in recognition of his service.

Following his return home, he worked in his father's businesses, gaining experience in dealership operations, sales, and motel management. A devoted family man, Joseph was the proud father of six boys, all raised in a modest home on Ogle Street in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania. He worked tirelessly-often day and night-taking on roles that included truck driving and bar ownership to provide for his large family.

In 1977, Joseph made the bold decision to relocate his entire family to Gastonia, North Carolina, leaving behind the only hometown he had ever known. There, his family continued to grow and flourish, becoming his greatest source of pride. He lived in the same home in Gastonia for 49 years, creating a lifetime of memories.

Joseph was a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan who enjoyed gathering with friends at local sports bars to cheer on his team. He loved fishing and looked forward each year to trips to the Outer Banks with close friends. He also enjoyed working with his hands-whether tending to his yard or spending time working on his truck.

Known for his easygoing nature and warm personality, Joseph had a remarkable ability to make friends wherever he went and was cherished by all who knew him.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Joan Davidson; sons, Joseph W. Davidson and wife, Marian of Egg Harbor Township, NJ, Jon P. Davidson of Cary, NC, Todd F. Davidson and wife, Annette of Charlotte, NC, Joseph Kevin Davidson and wife, Dana of Dallas, NC, and Jay F. Davidson and wife, Christina of Gastonia; brothers, Ronald E. Davidson of Ebensburg, PA, and J. Paul Davidson of Maxton, NC; granddaughters, Rosie D. Evans and husband Bryan of Pittsburgh, PA, Ashlee Zingraf of Egg Harbor Township, NJ, and Kylee Davidson of Colorado Springs CO; grandsons, Connor Davidson of Charlotte, NC, Dylan Davidson of Colorado Springs, CO and Trevor Davidson and fiancee Maddie of Durham, NC; great grandchildren, Landon and Logan.

In addition to his parents, Joseph was preceded in death by his son, Rick P. Davidson; brother, Donald R. Davidson; granddaughter, Shana Davidson; and daughter-in-law, Sue Davidson.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at a visitation scheduled for April 27, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Greene Funeral Service South Chapel. A private graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Belmont, NC. Joseph will be laid to rest with the honor and dignity befitting a man of his character.

His loving spirit will forever remain in our hearts. May he rest in peace.