James Davis, Jr.

James Davis, Jr., affectionately known as J.D., was born May 3, 1951, in Stephens, AR, to the union of James Davis, Sr., and Tessie Davis.  James attended the Stephens School District, graduated from Carver High School, and continued his education at the University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff, achieving a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education.  During the summer months, while attending high school and college, James earned money working at Elk Roofing, East Camden Ammunition, and the pulpwood industry alongside his dad and brothers.

At an early age, James was baptized at Cedar Grove Baptist Church in Stephens, AR, and remained a member while also attending Harvest Christian Community Church in Cairo, IL, until his death.   His birthplace of Stephens, AR was dear to him; he never forgot about it and made a point to visit every chance he got.

In 1973 James moved to Cairo, IL, gaining employment as the Band Director at Cairo Jr. High and High School.   While employed he continued graduate studies at SIU Carbondale and received certification in Cooperative Vocational Education.    James also served as the Jr. High School Music Director, Work Experience Career Exploration Program Coordinator, Director, and Dean of Students.  After 33 dedicated years of service at the Cairo School District, James retired in May 2006.

James was a distinguished and dapper businessman owning and operated a nightclub for 20 years.  James’ name is synonymous with a community legend having extraordinarily strong ties presenting as an esteemed leader.   James received a Lifetime Achievement honor and served on numerous boards for local organizations.  Until his premature death, James served as a member of the Cairo Public Utility Company board of directors.

James was always willing to help others in the school environment and the community.  His persona was welcoming, presenting himself in a manner that a five-minute conversation would make one feel as if you have known each other forever.  James loved sports and the outdoors life of hunting, fishing, planting, and growing things.

James is preceded in death by his mother Tessie, father James Sr., daughter Janice, and sister-in-law Ruby.  He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife HyPagia; two sisters, Judy (Henry) Flenory, Nashville, TN, and Shelia Archer, Detroit, MI.  Five brothers Willie (Amelia) Davis, Kankakee, IL, Robert Davis, Hope, AR, Terry (Cynthia) Davis, Nashville, TN, Brandon (Lakita), Davis, Camden, AR, and Mason Davis, Little Rock, AR.  Two sons, Jason (Charae)Cross, Cape Girardeau, MO, and James Davis, III, Cairo, IL.  Two daughters, Tessa Davis, Atlanta, GA, and Kayla Cross, Nashville, TN.  Two stepdaughters, LaTanya Rainey, Frisco, TX, and Shaquell Gant, St. Louis, MO.  One stepson, Kewain Gant, Wilson City, MO.   Seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, friends, and acquaintances.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 4, 2022 from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M.at the Cairo Junior Senior High School in Cairo, Illinois.  Friends may call Saturday, March 5, 2022 from 12:00 noon until the funeral hour of 1:00 P.M. at the Cairo Junior Senior High School with Pastor Jimmy Ellis officiating.  Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery with the Williams Funeral Homes of Charleston in charge of arrangements.