Copyright keenesentinel
Philip L. “Butch” Davis Jr., 60, a lifelong resident of Keene, died peacefully with his family by his side on Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. Butch was born on Aug. 19, 1965, to Janet (Symonds) Derosier and Philip L. Davis Sr. at Elliott Community Hospital in Keene. He attended local schools and was a graduate of the class of 1985 from Keene High School. Butch worked for many years as an auto mechanic and after making the difficult decision to leave mechanics and Leon’s Auto Center he ultimately pursued his true passion of tree work, taught to him by his father, and assumed the role of owner and operator of Phil’s Tree Service. Butch expanded the business and added Phil’s Crane Service. Unfortunately, Butch was forced to retire due to health issues in 2020. Butch also followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the Keene Fire Department in 1984 as a call fire fighter, ultimately attaining the rank of Captain. In his spare time, Butch could be seen on the sidelines watching his children’s sporting activities. He also spent time on the softball field, as both a player and a team sponsor. Always the avid hunter, he enjoyed the annual hunting trips to Maine with his cousin and friends, if only the deer could talk. Trips to Hampton Beach and Wells, Maine, were highlights of his summer as were Sunday pool parties and BBQs in Surry. Butch was a member of the Keene Elks Lodge 927 and enjoyed being with many old and new friends, but his greatest pleasure was spending time with his two young grandchildren, known to them as their “Grumpy,” Philip the 4th and Maddy. They loved sitting looking at deer pictures, checking out coins and taking selfies. Butchy has been described by many as “one of the best” or “a legend” due to his honesty, integrity and genuine caring nature. He was always there for his friends, family and complete strangers. Butch is preceded in death by his father, Philip L. Davis Sr.; his sister, Brenda (Davis) Rokes; and his grandparents. His mother, Janet (Symonds) Derosier, died Nov. 1, 2025. Butch is survived by his wife and best friend of 38 years, Steffany Hall Davis; his sons, Philip L. Davis III and his wife, Katarina, of Lee, and Lincoln RH Davis of Keene; his daughter, Paige TH Davis, of Camp Pendleton, Calif.; his cherished grandchildren, Philip L. Davis IV and Madison M. Davis; his brother, Michael Davis Sr., of Swanzey; his sister, Pamela (Davis) Galford, of Winchester; his in-laws, Rolland B. and Elaine C. Hall, of Keene; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Cheshire Family Chapel, 44 Maple Ave., Keene. Burial will be graveside on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery, 600 Main St., Keene. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home, Chapel, and Crematories. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com.
