Joseph "Davis" Marret, Jr.

Joseph Davis Marret, Jr., age 83 of Louisville, Kentucky passed away on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.

Davis was born in Louisville, Kentucky on April 18, 1941 to Carolyn Taylor and Joseph Davis Marret Sr. Davis was the 2nd oldest of four siblings: Leland Taylor, Varina Jefferson Davis, and Jefferson Murdoch. Davis’ father started Marret Hatchery in Louisville. Life there was full of mischief, raising hens, and selling eggs for market. 

The family moved to an expansive farm in Henry County, Kentucky and expanded their chicken business. “Davy” attended Wagner High school. There he joined the basketball, golf and track team. His senior picture caption read, “he was just a simple country lad”. Davy’s high school days were full of friendships, sports, humor, and cutting up with numerous friends especially Joe Deitrich. 

Davis attended Western Kentucky University and then enrolled in the Navy where he served for 6 years. 

Upon his return to Kentucky, like all Marrets, Davis became a business owner. Marret Paint Contracting Company kept him very busy. His eye for design and color, mixed with a charming personality made him a perfect paint contractor for his east end clients. 

Davis met Lucy Lee Schultze at his sister’s children's clothing store and was immediately drawn to her. Both Davis and Lucy had a fiery side, independent will, humor, and a zest for the fun side of life. They married, and together had two daughters, Varina Davis and Liza Gray. Though Davis and Lucy later divorced they remained very much a part of each other's lives and families until their earthly departures.

Davis’ daughter Varina “Nina” died at age 14 after a long battle with cancer. Davis and Lucy were forever changed with the loss of their daughter. 

Liza married Josh Peter Schneider in Louisville, Kentucky.  Davis welcomed 3 grandsons, Harlan Jed, Murdoch Pike and Guthrie Daniel within a short period of time. Davis immediately became Poppie. Poppie was with the boys for every moment of their lives and would drop anything to be there for them. 

Davis was known for his infectious sense of humor, “goofball” nature, creativity, love of music and wine, and lightheartedness. Davis kept his toolbox in his car at all times, always ready for his next project. He knew no stranger and had a zest for life up to the last minute.

Visitation will be 11am to 1pm on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Owl Creek Country Club, 12400 N Osage Rd, Anchorage, KY 40223, with a memorial celebration of Davis' life at 1pm.  A graveside service will be held at 2:30pm Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Cave Hill Cemetery, meeting at the Grinstead gate at 2:15pm. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

Memorials may be made to Blackacre Conservancy and Kosair Charities or the National Match and Bone Marrow Progam (www.NMDP.org.)

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