Stanley Davies

Stanley Davies, a respected public servant and beloved Cranston resident, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025 at the age of 94. Stanley was born on August 31, 1930 to the late Alfred and Doris Davies. Stanley was predeceased by his beloved wife of 73 years, Patricia Davies.

Stan dedicated his life to public service, embarking on a remarkable career that spanned decades. He began as a volunteer firefighter for Warwick on his 18th birthday. In 1952, he joined the Cranston Fire Department, where he soon moved to the Rescue Division. He established the department's first Photo Lab, processing vital images for the Fire Prevention Division and City of Cranston. His commitment to safety led him to the Fire Investigations Department in 1966.

After retiring from the Cranston Fire Department in 1973, Stan continued his impactful work as an Electrical Instructor for the US Concentrated Employment Program. In 1974, he joined the State Fire Marshal's Office, rising through the ranks to become an Explosive Technician and Supervisor of the Bomb Squad. His dedication led him to serve as Chief of Technical Services from 1981 to 1998. In this capacity, he provided crucial support to the Secret Service during presidential and foreign dignitary visits to Rhode Island, spanning the Carter through Clinton administrations.

A skilled instructor, Stan worked with the FBI through the New England Bomb Data Training Program from 1981 to 1983. He was a strong advocate for public safety, assisting the Fire Alarm Association in drafting fire alarm code legislation in 1983. In 1985, he helped design the first hearing-impaired smoke detector system. Even after his "retirement" from the State Fire Marshal's Office, Stan remained active, working part-time into his late 80s conducting inspections for the cities of Johnston, Smithfield, and Warwick. Stan was a Master Electrician and Master Plumber and repaired water heaters for Narragansett Electric as a sub-contractor for decades.

Stan served in the United States Navy Reserve from 1947 to 1952. His commitment to his community was evident through his memberships in numerous organizations, including the Fire Safety Association, RI Electrical Board, Elevator Advisory Board, Fire Officer’s Communication Association of RI, Cranston Retired Firefighter’s Relief Association, and Cranston Rotary. He was recognized for his leadership as New England Chapter Director of the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators from 1977 to 1986, receiving a Distinguished Service Award.

Stan and Patricia were devoted members of Phillips Memorial Baptist Church. In his later years, Stan discovered a passion for winemaking, joining his friends at the Southside Social Club to produce award-winning homemade wines. Stan was passionate about volunteering with the Cranston Rotary Club and enjoyed helping the community by arranging donations to the Amos House. Together, Stan and Pat embraced a vibrant social life, enjoyed travel, dining out, and time spent with beloved friends and family. Those who knew him well will fondly remember Stan’s unwavering sweet tooth and his love for all things chocolate.

He is survived by six loving children: Robert (Norma) Davies, the late Cherry (Eddy) Onanian, Joanne Davies, Cathy (Tom) Miller, David (Caroline) Davies, and Linda (Mike) Dugan. His legacy continues through his eight grandchildren, whom he affectionately called his “keeds”: Christian (Karen) Davies, Jon (Adrienne) Davies, Bethany (Bill) Robertson, Jamie (Chris) Miller, Allie (Jake) Lewtan, Nathaniel Davies, Alexander Davies, and Joshua Dugan. He also leaves eight great-grandchildren: Lilly, Foster, Charlotte, Benjamin, Clara, Ryan, Eloise, and Maisie. He is predeceased by his sister, Barbara (Bertil) Franzen and brothers, Harvey (Sandy) Davies and Norman (Joyce) Davies. Stan will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his many family members and friends.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday July 30, 2025 from 4:00-7:00pm in The Butterfield Chapel 500 Pontiac Avenue Cranston. A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday July 31, 2025 at 11:00am in Phillips Memorial Baptist Church 565 Pontiac Avenue Cranston.  Burial will be private.  

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to HopeHealth (https://www.hopehealthco.org/ways-to-give/donatenow/) or Phillips Memorial Baptist Church.