Deacon James McKinley Davis, Sr ., affectionately known as Jay Bird, Tom, Uncle James, and Pa Pa, peacefully entered eternal rest at the age of 101 on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Born on July 19, 1923, in Ashland, Virginia, James was the son of Alonza J. and Ivory E. Davis.

On April 4, 1949, James married the love of his life, Esther Gordon Davis, and together they built a beautiful legacy, raising five children: Warren, James Jr., Janet, Myron, and Eula.

James had a profound sense of humor, a remarkable talent for horticulture, a joy for singing praises to God and a deep love for the Lord. His bountiful garden and passion for fishing brought joy and nourishment to family and friends alike. His generosity and steadfast faith left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

As a young man, James accepted Christ at Greenwood Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a deacon. Over the years, he served faithfully as Superintendent of Sunday School, Chairman of the Deacon Board, and a member of the Men's Choir. Additionally, he sang with the Abner Baptist Men's Choir, the I.H. Hines Choir, and the Christian Four for over 35 years.

James proudly served his country during World War II, defending freedom in the Philippines as a Seaman First Class V6 USNR SV in the U.S. Navy. His dedication to service extended beyond the military, as he contributed to his community in numerous roles:

• Assistant Chief Officer of Election for the Farrington Precinct

• Member of the Teamsters Local Union No. 592

• Licensed Barber, offering "family rates" to the community

• Member of Pride of Hanover Lodge No. 264 in Ashland, VA

• Graduate of Armstrong High School's Body Mechanic Program

• Recipient of a Diploma Certificate from the International Theological Seminary

Professionally

James worked as a storage supervisor at Virginia Bonded Warehouse for 18 years.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Alonza J. and Ivory E. Davis, and siblings Stella Clarke, Mosker Davis, Etta Clarke, Hilton Davis, Lilton Davis, Frank Davis, Montgomery Davis, Clyde Davis, and Carl Davis.

He leaves behind a loving and devoted family to cherish his memory: his beloved wife of 75 years, Emeritus Deaconess Esther Gordon Davis; children, Deacon Warren G. Davis Sr. (Deaconess Tilda Davis), Rev. James M. Davis Jr. (Carmen), Deacon Janet D. Brown (Allen), Pastor Myron D. Davis Sr. (Co-Pastor Melody Davis), and Eula D. Wallace (Deacon Michael Wallace); grandchildren, Myron D. Davis Jr., Jasmen Davis, Yunika Davis, Mark Brown (Venicia), Geoffrey Brown, Jesse Davis, Tracey Davis, Jamie Davis, Rachel Davis, Christopher Wallace, Warren Davis Jr, and Corey Wallace; great-grandchildren, Layla Richburg, Austin Booker, Jayelle Davis, Aaron Brown, and Nia Brown; brothers, Charles H. Davis (Loretta) and Warren L. Davis; sister-in-law, Gurtha Davis; a host of nieces, nephews, and one devoted nephew, Lester Gordon, who was like a son to him.

Deacon James McKinley Davis, Sr., a man of wisdom, when asked for advice on life, simply replied: "Stay young as long as you can." He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched.