James Davis

Today you are here to Commemorate My Life," It's the end of my existence and I know it's painful and hard to accept, as you realize you will never be able to hear my voice, laugh, or do anything with me again. I do not want you to cry or mourn too much for me cause suffering is temporary and purposeful. God uses trials to restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish our character and faith. Therefore, familyand friends cherish the years, moments, and memories of life we all shared together. Love you Forever! I was born on Monday, February 3, 1936 (The Silent Generation) in Georgetown, South Carolina to Hallet and Bertha Keith Davis who both preceded me in death. I was the third child and the first boy to this union. I was affectionally called "Bobby" by all my friends and family members. I was also blessed to have siblings, seven (7) sisters Mary, Edna Mae, Elenora, Clara, Renner, Bertha, Joyce, and Gloria; four brothers (4) Elijah, Ulyssee, Benjamin, and Andrew. Throughout the course of my childhood, I attended church with my mother, however, with my mouth and my belief within my heart that Jesus is Lord and I accepted Him as my Lord and Saver. In the South, it was a fully segregated school system until 1963. I had to work and help support my family; therefore, it was unfortunate, that I had to be removed from school to achieve this responsibility. At the age of 19, I migrated to Fort Lauderdale, Florida via a Bean Bus as a migrant worker, unbeknownst to me it turned out to be a successful decision. On April 21, 1957, I was hired in a part-time entry-level position with the Water Division of Oakland Park Water Department. My ability, dedication, and willingness to learn earned me a position as a Crew Leader in 1968. As a Crew Leader, this position contributed to my position as Superintendent in January 1976, ranking highest on my test. I was accountable for organizing and directing the work of employers involved in the responsibility for construction, installation, maintenance and repair of the water distribution system within the city. In addition, managing service complaints, emergencies, and system modification. Over the 41 years of service receiving many, many accolades, plagues, letters of appreciation from employers and residents/customers. Retiring April 29, 1998. In my early years, I met my first wife, Diane W and we were blessed with seven (7) beautiful children: James Jr (deceased), Terry, Cynthia (deceased), Diane, Anthony, Michael, and Daron. In addition, another beautiful son was born, Xavier to Mother Mildred H. Years later, I met the love of my life, Betty in April 1971, becoming my wife in 1979, and sharing 53 years together. To this union were three (3) beautiful children: Nancy, Tina, and Precious (daughter/granddaughter). As a strong advocate for nature, in my spare time as a simple soul, I enjoyed fishing, watching the news, maintaining my lawn, and spending lots of family gatherings together sharing wisdom, laughing, and having fun at home. To my cherished family and friends, when it's all said and done, God has a destinct path for each of us from birth and mines has come to an end. I leave you with tremendou memories of love, experience, and all the accomplishments we acheived together. Seek God first and always remember family, where Life begins and Love never ends. To my wife, Betty, a remarkable woman--a woman of strength, integrity, passion, pride, thoughtful, hardworker, fun and loving. I was truly blessed to have my wife as a nurse to take care of me 24 hours/day during my lengthy sickness. Thank you for our beautiful children: Daron (Cecilia--West Palm Bch, FL), Diane (deceased), Nancy (Terrell--Lexington, SC), Tina (Garnett) and Precious; James Jr (deceased), Terry (Tina), Anthony, Michael, and Xavier (Robin); Seventeen (17) awesomely amazing Grand children; Jarita, Jasmyn, Essie, Terry (deceased), Carl (Shelia), Trevin (Lyn--Utah), Shanquetta, Stephen, Sedrick (Erica-Columbia SC), Michelle, Casey, Jalon, Randy, Xavier Jr, Keyande, Jewel and Carter. Thirty-eight, (38) Great-grandchildren; one (1) Great-Great-grandchild, and one (1) Great-Great-Great grandchild--Cali. I have left an imprint of my heart to my siblings. Sisters: Mary, Edna Mae, Elenora, Clara and Bertha--(all deceased), Renner (Lewis-Georgetown, SC), Betty (Jessie--Hardford Conn), and Joyce Grayson--Clinton, MD). Brothers: Elijah-(Nancy-District Heights, MD), Ulyssee (Washington, DC), Benjamin (Claudette--Clinton, MD), Joyce Grayson--(Clinton MD, and Andrew (Dorsha--District Heights, MD). A host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, all whom loved him dearly. Special thank you to Diane Robinson for being there in our time of need. Good Bye until I see you again. I was BLESSED with a great Life LOVE YOU ALL!!!

James Davis

February 3, 1936 - May 26, 2024