Obituary of Benjamin Rashad-Karriem Davis

Benjamin Rashad-Karriem Davis was the first born son from the union between Kenneth Otis Davis and Nichelle Denise (Smith). This beautiful baby boy was born October 15, 1993 in Poway, California. Benjamin was born into a military family which kept him frequently on the move. After a short time in Poway, the family moved to his father's family home in Chicago, IL. He returned back to California to begin his education at Quail Glen Elementary School in Roseville, CA. At 6 years old he found a interest in sports. Benjamin played basketball, football and baseball. He never let his size discourage him and it was then that he received the nickname "BIG BEN". Benjamin attended Quail Glen until 3rd grade. After the trade center attack of 9/11, Benjamin's mom was called to active duty with the US Navy. This moved Benjamin eastward, first to Chicago for the 4th and 5th grade at Beasley Academic Magnet School and finally to Harrisburg from 2004 onward. Relocating to Harrisburg, PA, Benjamin attended Southside Elementary, Central Dauphin Middle School and Central Dauphin East High School. Benjamin enjoyed his days playing sports, involved in Boy Scouts and other community activities. These life experiences shaped him along with the bonding of his friends who have come to be known as his" band of brothers". While attending school in PA, Benjamin started to touch lives as well as hearts, this truly made him the man he has become. Benjamin graduated Central Dauphin East High School in 2011. He decided to join the US Navy in February 2012 to follow in his father and mothers footsteps of Naval Service. He was given the opportunity to serve overseas in Yokosuka, Japan. While serving OCONUS, Benjamin served on an Aircraft Carrier, USS George Washington (CVN-73). As Ship Company, he successfully completed Aviation Ordinance courses to become an Enlisted Surface Warfare Officer (ESWS) in July 2015. Ben's duties included conducting maintenance on aircraft and prepare flight schedules. Benjamin strived to work hard which earned him his Air Warfare (AW) and Surface Warfare (SW) Pen. While on the USS George Washington (GW), he begins to excel in his duties and gained promotion to Petty Officer 3rd Class in June 2015 and Petty Officer 2nd Class in June 2016. While stationed on the USS George Washington (GW), he began to study college courses with hope to become a Naval Officer. This opportunity gave Benjamin the chance to travel the world and experience things only a few could only imagine; meeting new people, trying new things and feeling freedom. In August of 2016, Benjamin was relocated to Lemoore, California. He was attached to Strike Fighter Squadron Two Two (VFA-22) as a Storage Management System Operator. Benjamin learned the ability to operate and troubleshoot aircraft computer systems. While in California, Benjamin was involved in numerous community service and volunteer projects. He attended many sports events to include college football and swim meets. He would dedicate his time to helping his shipmate, no matter if it was to watch their pets while they were away or mentoring junior sailors in decisions, personally and professionally. While stationed in California, he had the opportunity to build memories and reconnect with family. In March 2017, Benjamin re-enlisted for another 5 years. In August 2017, his duty station changed returning him to the east coast in Norfolk, VA. He received more training to specialize in ammunition ordnance. Benjamin continued to excel in his military career. He was goal oriented and focused his efforts on completing his bachelor's degree in order to become an officer in the US Navy. Benjamin was scheduled to start college courses April 2, 2018. On Feb 22, 2018, on his way to report for duty, Benjamin was involved in a tragic and fatal motorcycle accident. We mourn the loss of our son, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew, cousin, shipmate and friend. He transitioned to his eternal home and although he is gone he will never be forgotten, Benjamin Rashad-Karriem Davis is forever in our hearts and memories. Benjamin is survived by his mother, Nichelle Denise Smith; Father, Kenneth Otis Davis; Step-Parents; Clarence Loftin and Liya Davis; Siblings, Erica Roberson, Natasha Roberson, Aaleyah Karriem-Davis, Amen Davis, Adam Davis, and Eva Davis; Nephew, Adrian Roberson; Maternal Grandparents, Maureen (Moore) Smith and Conway Smith (deceased); Paternal Grandparents, Kathryn (Carthen) Davis and Clifford Davis (both deceased); Extended Grandparents, Freida Pippen-Davis and Evelyn (Sturdivant) Loftin. Aunt Adrianne (Smith) Howze, and Uncle Roderick Howze; Uncle Conway Smith; Uncle Zachary Smith and Aunt Martha (Cuellar) Smith; Aunt Syretta Smith; Uncle Jean-Paul Smith; and a Host cousins. A viewing will be held on Monday, March 5, 2018 at Neidig Memorial United Methodist Church 1251 Highland St. Harrisburg PA 17113 from 10AM-11AM. Services will begin at 11AM. Burial with full military honors will be in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. The Dailey Funeral home is honored to serve the Davis family. www.daileyfuneralhome.com