William James Davison III

William J. Davison III, affectionately known as Jimmy, was born on August 18, 1938, in Marvell, Arkansas. Jimmy’s life was marked by dedication to service, education, and community. A 1956 graduate of Marvell High School,  he demonstrated a strong work ethic from an early age—delivering newspapers by bicycle all over town, mowing lawns, shining shoes at the local barber shop, and working the concession stand at the Capitol Theater. During his senior year of high school, he even drove a school bus. Also, working at Corder & Foree Grocery Store and later at Paul’s Park & Shop.

After high school, Jimmy enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1956. He served honorably for four years as a clerk and mechanic. His assignments took him to several bases including Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas; Francis E. Warren AFB in Cheyenne, Wyoming; Stead AFB in Reno, Nevada; and Kadena AFB in Okinawa. His time in the military instilled in him a sense of discipline and pride that would carry through every chapter of his life.

During his military service, Jimmy pursued higher education with determination. After receiving his Bachelor's Degree and while working at Otasco for several years during the day, he attended college classes at night. His perseverance paid off when he earned a Master’s Degree from Arkansas State University and later received a degree in Counseling. 

Jimmy dedicated much of his professional life to education. He worked for the Helena-West Helena School District as a Business Education teacher and spent 25 years shaping young minds at Central High School before retiring. Even after retirement, his passion for people led him to take on a role as a greeter at the Visitor’s Center in Helena—a position he held for several years before choosing to fully retire alongside his wife.

A man of many talents and interests, Jimmy had a lifelong love for small engine repair and could often be found tinkering with go-karts or antique cars. He raised turtles with care and enthusiasm and enjoyed racing. His beloved cat, Matt Dylan, was never far from his side.

Jimmy was also deeply rooted in faith and community. A lifelong member of Marvell Methodist Church, he served as superintendent for over 40 years and taught Sunday School with unwavering commitment.

Jimmy passed away at the age of 87, on September 30, 2025, at his home following a lengthy illness. He was surrounded by his wife and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jay and Cordelia Davison; son, Charles James Davison and sister, Delia Davison Henson; Granddaughter, Angel Davison.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Bettie, of the home and sons, Gene Davison (Micki) of Marvell and Robert Davison (Rebecca) of Corinth, Texas; Six grandchildren, Kristy Davison of Byhalia, Mississippi, C.J. Davison Jr. (Erwin) of Marion, Arkansas, Christen Davison Hitchcock (Adam) of Greenbrier, Arkansas, Steven Davison of Corydon, Indiana, Kevin Davison (Anna) of Marvell and Emily Davison Sisk (Trenton) of Stratford, Oklahoma; Five Great-Grandchildren, C.J. Davison III (Haley), Colby Davison, Drew Davison, Daniel Davison and Logan Hitchcock; Step-Grandchildren, Geoffrey Gauntt and Brittany Parker; Step-Great Grandchildren, Addison Gauntt, Grayson Gauntt, Paige Gauntt and Mary Peyton Parker; Sister, Mary Nell Ellenburg (Mike) of Claremore, OK.

His legacy is one of hard work, service to others—and above all—a deep connection to his hometown community.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as an enduring reminder of a life well lived. 

"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know." John 14:1-4