Carson R. "Buddy" Davis Jr., who designed and built Carolina-style sportfishing boats from 28 to 78 feet, died Jan. 17 at his home in Marathon, Fla., after a lengthy illness, according to a story in Soundings Trade Only. He was 62.

Davis' boats were designed and built mainly under two companies: Davis Boat Works, which he founded in 1973, and Davis Yachts, which he formed in the mid 1980s, according to his wife, Barbara Davis, Soundings reported.

During his 45-year career, Davis built some 400 yachts, according to the family.

He is survived by a daughter, a son, a former wife, his wife Barbara, and two stepsons.

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