Joe David Havens

Joe David Havens of Davidson, NC passed away December 20, 2021 at the age of 92 in his home.Joe was born on a farm between Guthrie and Edmond Oklahoma on August 19, 1929 to the late Joe Henry and Edna Ruth Havens. He was predeceased by the mother of his children, Beatrice Rose Jenkins, and his brother William Henry Havens.

Joe is survived by his loving wife Betty J. “BJ” and his children: Michael David Havens, Steven Lee Havens (Lisa), and James Alan Havens (Carol).  Other survivors include his grandchildren: Simone Harlowe (Josiah), Ashley Beckford (Ben), Jeremy Willis (Anna), Victoria Havens, John Havens (Jordan), Will Havens, Lillie Jo Havens, Codi Thomas (Chase), Katie Havens-Kreger (Garret), Hanna Havens, and Tamra Tomlinson; his great grand-grandchildren: Pailey Chapman, Dahlia Harlow, Piper Kreger, Gavin Kreger, Hunter Havens, Nora Havens, Jackson Thomas, Colton Willis, Emma Willis, Jenna Willis, Benjamin Bickford and Aubree Bickford; and his nieces:  Catherine Neumeyer, Linda Moore, and Janet Havens-Maag.

Joe had humble beginnings growing up during and after the Great Depression.  He worked diligently shining shoes, delivering papers and serving as a hotel bell hop, and his determined work ethic, ambition, and energy led him to a rewarding and prosperous career as an enterprising Texas businessman.  He served most of his adult career as an executive at Enterprise Petroleum Company, which he founded in 1968.   He served as an Elder of Berean Baptist Church in Houston, TX.  He enjoyed hunting, travel, and, more than anything, golf.

Joe was the first in his family to earn a college degree when he graduated from Oklahoma University in 1957.  He valued hard work and education, and he realized a special responsibility to share what he was fortunate enough to earn and possess with others.  He has donated generously to many causes, and establishing The Havens Foundation in 1990 was one of his proudest accomplishments.  This educational fund has made it possible for 444 students to graduate from college. Joe considered himself extremely blessed.  He was a man with a head for business and a heart for generosity. 

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 301 Caldwell Lane, Davidson, NC Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 11:00 am.  The family will receive friends following the service at 19630 River Falls Drive, Davidson, NC. 

Memorial donations may be offered to St Alban’s Episcopal Church “Parish House Fund,” 301 Caldwell Lane, Davidson, NC 28036.

Arrangements are in the care of Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home.  Online condolences can be shared at www.raymerfh.com. BJ and the families are thankful for the support and love from their many friends, especially Maggie Harrington and Becky Schuyler, and the dedication, compassion and care of the Home Instead staff.