William V. Davis, Jr.

William V. Davis Jr.

86, of Indianapolis, passed away April 16, 2017. He was born on September 5, 1930 in Burbank, CA to the late Winifred and William Davis, Sr.

Known as Willie "the Cork" Davis in the racing industry, he first fell in love in 1952 building a streamliner car that set the land speed record on the Bonneville Salt Flats. In 1969 and 1971, he was the USAC National Sprint Car Champion car owner, being inducted into the USAC Hall of Fame in 2016. William was also an inducted member of the Knoxville, Iowa Sprint Car Hall of Fame.

William was well known on the Indycar Circuit working on several Indy Car Teams throughout the years. His personal highlight was the 1980 Indy 500 Chief Mechanic for driver Gary Bettenhausen who went from 32nd to 3rd Place finish. Willie will always be remembered as the man who could do anything on any kind of race car.

William is survived by his children, Steve (Arlana) Yant, David Yant, Dee (Ron) Haag, Jeannine (Sonny) Britton, and James (Candy) Yant; 11 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; sister, Christy Littell; brother in law, Roger Littell; niece, Wendi (Barry) Tovey; nephew, William Littell; 1 great niece; 1 great newphew; and many racing fraternity friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Davis.

A Celebration of Life will be held May 24, 2017 at the Brickyard Crossing Golf Course Pavilion, 4400 West 16th Street. Friends may call from 2 PM until the time of the service at 5 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to USAC Benevolent Foundation, 124 E. Northfield Drive, Ste F#129, Brownsburg, IN 46112.

Friends may leave a memory or message of condolence by visiting the online obituary at www.arnmortuary.com.