A concurrent RESOLUTION

 

To request the Department of Transportation name the portion of 6th Street in the City of Hartsville in Darlington County from its intersection with 5th Street to its intersection with East Home Avenue "Samuel L. Davis Memorial Street" and erect appropriate markers or signs along this portion of Highway containing these words.

 

Whereas, Samuel L. Davis was born February 17, 1953, in Hartsville, the youngest son of Albert and Josephine Davis. Along with his eight siblings, was he was reared in a loving and supportive extended family that included his grandmother, Nancy Toney Davis, Godparents Harold L. and Dorothy J. Young, and strong aunts, uncles, and cousins. In this environment of love and support Davis grew up to become an outstanding business owner and an exemplary man; and

 

Whereas, at the tender age of ten, Davis became a student of mortuary science under the leadership of Harold L. Young, the proprietor of Young & Young Funeral Home in Hartsville. The Youngs were civic-minded members of the community and staffed the funeral home with individuals from the community, particularly young males. The Youngs invested in a plethora of young people, but the only one who stayed was Samuel Lee Davis. At age ten he was poor but ambitious, working diligently in the funeral home for several years, becoming a son to the Young family; and

 

Whereas, Harold L. Young passed unexpectedly in 1978 followed a month later by his wife, Dorothy. Young had long stated his desire that Davis own a "piece" of the funeral home. Just before her death, Mrs. Young honored the request with Sam sharing ownership of the funeral home with the Young's daughter. At the daughter's request in 1983, Davis purchased her portion of the funeral home and became the sole proprietor; and

 

Whereas, a visionary, Davis purchased adjacent property in 1996 to build a five-door garage and to provide additional parking for chapel services and community events. The former garage was converted into a casket room that could house more than thirty high-quality units, and a conference room to provide privacy for families making funeral arrangements. The Youngs original legacy of first-rate service continues through the current generation; and

 

Whereas, a pillar of service and compassion, Davis left an indelible mark on the Hartsville community through his selfless actions and unwavering dedication to others. He ensured dignified burials for all families in need knowing he may not receive compensation, embodying the principle that everyone deserves a respectful farewell; and

 

Whereas, like the Youngs before him, Davis empowered individuals without the opportunity to pursue higher education by helping them acquire skills through trade school or vocational training. This enhanced their employment prospects and enabled them to better support their families. During the holiday season, Davis generously gave away one hundred gift cards of one hundred dollars each. Seniors received hams and turkeys to ensure they too could enjoy a festive holiday meal; and

 

Whereas, Davis actively supported community events by providing parking for those attending gatherings at Pride Park, increasing accessibility, and fostering a sense of unity among residents.  He also served as a compassionate advocate for families navigating the probate process following the death of a loved one, recognizing the confusion and stress that can accompany legal matters; and

 

Whereas, Samuel L. Davis departed this life on October 2, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, generosity, selflessness, and a tireless commitment to serving others; and

 

Whereas, it is altogether fitting and proper that this son of the Palmetto State who touched countless lives, embodied the true spirit of community, and left an enduring impact on the City of Hartsville and beyond be remembered with a street named in his honor. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

 

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, request the Department of Transportation name the portion of 6th Street in the City of Hartsville in Darlington County from its intersection with 5th Street to its intersection with East Home Avenue "Samuel L. Davis Memorial Street" and erect appropriate markers or signs along this portion of highway containing these words.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Department of Transportation.

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