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James W. Davis, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 17, 2024, at the age of 77. Born on February 7, 1947, to Jefferson and Thelma Davis in southwest Detroit, Michigan, James was a cherished son and sibling to Thomas Davis and the late Larry Davis.
Growing up in Detroit, James found joy in playing sports at Patton Park and developed a lifelong passion for the smooth sounds of Motown music. He attended Western High School and later earned his degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.
On July 5, 1969, James married the love of his life, Linda, at Springwells Baptist Church in Detroit. Their union was blessed with two children, Jeff and Amy Davis, and later welcomed Jeff’s spouse Ann into their hearts. James adored his family and took great pride in his role as a husband, father, and grandfather to his cherished grandchildren, Hannah, Lauren, and Brandon.
James served his country with honor and distinction as a member of the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. His service was a testament to his bravery and commitment to his country.
Following his military service, James initially pursued a career as a Sportswriter and Sports Editor for the Lacrosse Tribune. He later transitioned to corporate communications working for Inland Steel, JM Tull Metals, and International Paper, where he made significant contributions to each organization. After a successful career, James retired in 2011 and settled in Sun City, Griffin, Georgia.
In retirement, James remained active in the community, particularly within the Veterans community, where he found fulfillment in serving others. An avid sports enthusiast, James enjoyed playing golf and following his favorite sports teams. He also dedicated his time to mentoring students at local schools, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many.
A passionate writer, James continued his love for sports writing by developing a website dedicated to college hockey in the southeast called HockeyYa’ll.com. His dedication to his craft and his enthusiasm for the game endeared him to fellow sports enthusiasts and fans alike.
In addition to his love for sports, James cherished moments spent with family and friends, sharing stories, laughter, and creating memories that will be treasured forever. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.
As we mourn the loss of James, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the love and memories he leaves behind.
Ann says
You will be missed Jim. Thank you for being an awesome grandfather to Hannah and Lauren, and an even greater dad to my husband Jeff.
Joyce verrinder says
My sympathy and prayers to the Davis family ..
Lauren says
Love you, Uncle Jim. You will always be my favorite dance partner.
Dana R Darnell says
Jim blessed our world. I have never known anyone better than Jim. He was ever-kind and compassionate. Every time I will think
If Jim, he will brings smiles to me. Until we meet again….
Darrell says
To my lifelong friend Jim. I will miss our conversations about old times and Red Wings. You will be missed.
Bob Uhrig says
Our deepest sympathy to Linda and the entire Davis family. I met Jim at a SunCity event in 2017. He offered me a “Labatts Blue”. We were instant friends. I especially enjoyed talking hockey and his beloved Red Wings.
He was a very special man with a huge heart.
I just wish he hadn’t beat so often at golf and Bubble Hockey. Rest in peace my friend.
Jack and Donna Hofmann says
Our condolences to Linda and the Davis family. we were blessed with knowing Jim for 8 years. We will miss his kindness, humor and love of hockey.
Lisa Gibson says
You will truly be missed. You were a great roll model and influence on my sons life (Geoffrey Gibson). Mentoring him and watching him grow into a giving young man. You have left an impressive outlook on him. Thank you
Geoffrey Gibson says
James was the best mentor I could ever ask for, may he enjoy his his time in heaven.
Homer Gibbins says
Jim was one of my Parkinson’s boxers and I truly enjoyed the time we spent getting to know one another. My heart and prayers are with Linda, Jeff, and Amy as they continue to make him very happy. He loved his family and friend. His absence will be felt by so many. God bless you in all that you do.
Hall R says
Am so sorry, sure did like Jim.
Ron Twilley says
As one of Jim’s fellow boxers, I enjoyed talking to him about Michigan in general, we shared stories about the UP, and of course, football.
He was such a gentle soul. He will be missed by all of the boxers. Linda and family remain in my prayers 🙏.
Jennifer Baenziger says
RIP Uncle Jim. I’ll miss your smiles and your laughter. I’ll miss talking hockey and bringing you my peanut butter pies.
Danny and Jeanne Faulkner says
We are so saddened with the news of Jim’s passing. He was such a kind and welcoming neighbor that made us feel that we fit right in. He will be missed. Prayers for peace and comfort to Linda and family.🙏
Brandon Seeger says
To the best papa ever. You will never be forgotten.
Janis Nielsen says
Dear Linda and family, we are so very sorry to hear that Jim has passed. His gentle soul and quiet demeanor will be missed in the Parkinson’s boxing community. Please take care of each other,
Larry and Janis Nielsen
Kim Ferrell-Medley says
Dear Linda and family:
We are so very sorry and sad to hear about Jim’s passing. Jim was very special to my parents. Trips to Vero Beach, annual visits, going back to visit their childhood neighborhood, and talking about the old days and Detroit sports was something they truly enjoyed and always looked forward to. I know my dad always looked forward to his phone calls with Jim after a great Red Wings game or major sports event. I always enjoyed hearing about their time together and often thought what a blessing it was to have friendship and memories from childhood on through life. It was always a treat to see the four of them together from time to time over the years as they shared such fun and laughter always. I know Jim will be missed greatly by all his friends and family. To Linda, Jeff, Ann, Amy and your children…our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Tim and Kim Ferrell-Medley
Richard and Janet Jenkins says
Dear Linda and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers for you and your family. I pray God will heal your heart and surround you with family and friends. Richard and Janet Jenkins
Susana Kyle says
I will miss Jim at our boxing class. He was always up beat and full of energy. He had a wonderful smile. I am so sorry for his loss and pray for comfort and love to surround his family at this difficult time.
Susan Klee says
Linda and Family, I am so very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. My heart aches for you, I loved the visits we all shared. Sending you big hugs, love you, Linda.
Barbara MacDonald Magone says
Linda, Jeff and Amy, I was saddened to hear this unexpected news. I have known Jim since before 1969; he was always so nice to Linda’s friends. Happy to see him in later years on his visits to California. You are all in my thoughts.
Anne MacDonald Gillis says
Linda,Jeff, Amy, My deep felt condolences on the loss of Jim. Fraser and I are thinking of you.
Connie Smallwood says
What an inspiration Jim was to my husband. They were both in the same Parkinson’s boxing family. His stories and his determination always left him feeling a little happier and a lot more encouraged. Our prayers are for his family. We are sure he is sharing his stories will a new and approved audience!
David Elliott says
I will definitely miss my neighbor and golfing buddy. I really did enjoy picking Jim up and him riding with me in our Pod 29 on Fridays! I always enjoyed our conversation while playing golf and also smoking some chicken for the family when they visited with Linda and Jim. I offer up prayers for Linda and family for peace and comfort during this difficult time of grief. Please take comfort in knowing that Jim has transitioned and is in the presence of our Lord and Savior and is walking in glory!
Nancy Long says
Linda and family – Jim was a wonderful man and this obituary so eloquently states that. My heart aches for all of you in his passing. Your memories will keep him in your mind and heart for years to come. Keeping all of you in my prayers for peace and comfort.
Donald Sarkesian says
Rest in peace cuz, you’ll be truly missed. Hope to see you in heaven in the future. Love ❤️ you cousin!
My sympathy and condolences to Linda and Jim’s entire families. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Linda Shepherd says
We send our condolences to Linda and her family. He was loved by many and will be missed.
Tim & Mai Sarkesian says
Sorry to hear of Jim’s passing Linda . We’ll be praying for everyone in this time of sadness . Jim was a great cousin and I’ll miss him. He had a very impressive life ! Love Tim
Edie Makarewicz says
Linda I was so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. It came as a real shock. You and the family are in my prayers and praying to give you strength.
JOHN MARTIN says
LINDA-JEAN AND I WERE SADDENED TO HEAR OF JIM{S} PASSING HE WAS A RESPECED CO-WORKER AND CHERISHED FRIEND
MANY OF MY FUN TIMES AFTER RETIRING WERE SPENT WITH JIM AT THE GOLF COURSE
I WILL CERTAINLY MISS HIM GOD BLESS YOU
JOHN MARTIN
Sharon Carraway says
Linda, I am so very sorry to hear about Jim. I have a lot of great memories having known you both for just the 4 years we lived up the street from you in Griffin. The little trips we took together, the golf, the shared meals and so much more. Jim was quiet and had the dry sense of humor we loved about him. I just can’t seem to find the words to express how sad I am.
Lori D Klibanoff says
Linda,’Red’ and Family,
My family and I have so many fond memories and a lot of good laughs that we shared over the years.
I met Jim and Linda back in 1989. Jim was known to my daughter, now 34, as the Tickle Monster along with being the source for some fig newtons.
I will hold on to the memories and will raise a toast to Jim with a bowl of his favourite ice cream and beer.
Mari Magmer says
Linda, Jeff and Amy,
I am heartbroken for you all. Jim was such a good soul and so clearly loved the wonderful family you all made. I hope with time, the memories will flow with laughter again. Your whole family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Walter L Wallace says
Linda, Jeff and Amy,
So heavy on my heart to know that Jim has passed away. I spoke with him several months ago as we were planning a get together to catch up. Jim was one of my favorite people and a great guy to have on our team at Tull/ Ryerson. One of the most gifted writers/ innovators I have ever had the privileged to work with. I will miss him dearly and Linda, I know that Jim is in a better place now. I will keep you and family in my prayers for sure.
Jeff, I wish you the best and take care..
Mike Richmond says
So sorry to the Davis family,Jim was my hockey coach in Lacrosse Wi and I cherished our family friendship. He was a great coach, and life long friend. We talked recently after a close friend had passed and always wanted me to stop at the house for a NASCAR race in Atlanta. RIP Jim,I will miss your stories on Facebook.
Deborah Hays says
Tears falling asI think of the loss of Jim. One of the sweetest men I have ever I have ever known. I enjoyed being with both of you in Italy. Steve and I felt more comfortable with you than we did some of the others. I am sad for your loss and I know you are hurting Use the email at the bottom and send me your telephone number if you want to talk. My sad news is that I have been diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s . I am doing fine now. However, having cared for my mother in law I know how the disease progresses. I am 74 and have had a really good life. I will not beg for more but enjoy what is before me. I am so sorry for your loss and your children’s. A big fan of you and Jim. And thanks for sending us a notice.