James Beverly Davis, 69, of Montgomery was born April 1, 1944 and bid this world farewell on Monday, December 30, 2013.
James attended school at Montgomery High School and was a class of 1963 graduate. On November 3, 1963 he was united in marriage to his wife Pearl. To this union five children were born. He accepted Christ as his savior and was baptized at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Carbondale. He was employed as a coalminer for over 20 years.
James was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He was a dedicated worker of the Lord’s and was a deacon and member of the Senior Choir at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church of Carbondale.
In the community, he was a member of Naomi #10 O.E.S, Bright Hope Lodge #9, where he was a past worship master, and a former Valley Rockets football coach.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Pearl Davis, brother, Howard “Lovester” Davis and parents Elizabeth Royster and James Davis.
He leaves to cherish his memories three sons Thomas (Kim) Davis, Keith Davis, and Christopher Davis; two daughters Yavette Davis and Shelly Davis; step-mother Mildred Davis; Three sisters Evangeline Taylor, Denise (Charles) Johnson, and Tonylea Williams; Two brothers, Lancaster Steed (Pam) and Craig Davis. 21 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Service will be 1:00 PM Saturday at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Robert Morton officiating. Burial will follow in Montgomery Memorial Park at London. Friends may call two hours prior to service at the church. O'Dell Funeral Home, Montgomery is in charge of arrangements. Expressions of sympathy can be sent at www.odellfuneralhome.com