William Joseph Davison

Also known as "Joe"

1 May 192928 August 2025

DAVISON, William Joseph (Joe):

With his daughter by his side on Thursday, 28 August 2025 aged 96. Cherished husband of the late Barbara. Father of Raewyn & Martin Upsdell (Cromwell), Christine & Ian Pritchard (Lepperton), Graeme & Sheryl (New Plymouth), and Annette & Richard Philpot (Hobart). Grandad of 15 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Messages to the Davison Family may be left on Joe’s tribute page at eagars.co.nz/joe.

A service to celebrate Joe’s life will be held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel, 174 Lemon Street, New Plymouth on Friday 5 September 2025 at 10:30am followed by a private cremaion.

For those unable to attend, Joe’s funeral will be livestreamed via his tribute page.

Eagars Funerals

Notice by Eagars Funerals

Tributes

A short sail back in the mid 60s with my dad and Joe on his boat was probably the defining moment that sent me in the direction that I lived my life, sailing and boatbuilding. I thank you Joe. Best regards to my old mate from all those years ago Graeme and the Davison family. Graeme Blanch.

Graeme Blanch

Having known Joe since the 1960's, we've had the privilege of receiving many letters and cards (which we've kept), phone calls, and visits. Joe was always so willing to share his vast knowledge and nautical expertise. He told us his inspiration for yachting began when as a youngster, he towed little boats on a string in the stormwater flowing along the gutter beside the footpath. He said he loved watching the bow wave. Much later, we saw him arrive at the Collingwood wharf aboard "Yoho" accommpanied by friends, one of whom may have been Philip Goodsell. Over the years we've had so much pleasure from Joe's visits to the South Island in his yachts 'Sea Bird' and 'Sail Ho'. He would take us for a sail when conditions were right, and if berthed in the Tarakohe Marina [photo] we'd bring him home for a few days. Once, he even sailed into the Parapara estuary where we live. We're most grateful to have had a very spcial friendship, and told each other often. Our thoughts are with Joe and Barbara's family. You're all blessed to have such lovely parents. With love from Trevor and Marion, Golden Bay.

Trevor and Marion Riley

Sending our love and sympathy to Graeme & Sheryl and all your family at this sad time. Joe was a lovely man, and I enjoyed our little chats over the years. What a wonderful and interesting life he lived, with so many stories to tell! Rest in peace Joe. Thinking of you at this sad time, Alie & Brian xx

Alie & Brian B

I was introduced to you Joe, years and years ago by your son-in-law Ian, you were building a boat. Your name and skills have always left an impression on me. Ian spoke so many times of you, I was always humbled. Time to rest boat builder and sailor. Respect.

Deane Whitmore

Dear Joe, it is now time to rest in peace. You have left lovely memories with so many people in your life as you were so interesting to listen to. The times you came along to our Stroke socials you thoroughly enjoyed. Deepest sympathy to all the family, your dear father was such a gentleman.

Jean Hastie
App logo mockup
The Remembered App

A simple way to share tributes, receive service reminders, and send flowers or support.

Join the Waitlist
Website Logo

©2026 remembered.co.nz All rights reserved.