James [Jim] Edwin Davis

Ending an unordinary and consequential life, Jim Davis died December 14, 2023, at his home in Lafayette, CO. His journey began in Idaho Falls, Idaho, but within months he moved to Bozeman, Montana, where he lived with his parents, Dave and Betty Davis, and his sister Kathy through high school. Jim remained a proud Montanan throughout his 83 years, frequently telling colorful tales, truthful and embellished, of life in Big Sky. Education became the core of Jim's adulthood. Although his own college experience meandered through several universities, he concluded with two degrees from Montana State and an Ed.D from the University of Colorado. His early degrees were in economics, but his doctoral studies broadened his interest to the pre-college teaching of all social sciences. A born teacher, Jim taught in various capacities at Pacific Lutheran, University of Colorado, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Many of Jim's professional years were spent at the Social Science Education Consortium [SSEC] in Boulder, CO where he served as Associate Director and later Executive Director. Begun in the 1960s, SSEC served as a bridge between the New Social Studies being developed in American universities and the elementary/secondary teachers who were encouraged to teach social studies in new ways. At SSEC Jim worked with a talented staff and noted academics to conduct research, write publications, and facilitate professional teacher training throughout the United States and other countries. He was particularly gratified after the dissolution of the Soviet Union to be asked to teach democracy education to teachers in former Soviet republics. Jim participated in numerous professional organizations, including the National Council of the Social Studies. He also wrote many articles and several books, most prominently his best-selling middle/high school civics textbook which is used schools across the nation. Along with his profession, Jim loved his family. In 1962 Jim married Mary Lou Montague and to their marriage were born Katherine Elizabeth and David Montague. After their divorce, Jim married Sharryl (Holloway) Hawke in 1981and became stepfather to Mark Hawke. From their blended marriage, Jim and Sharryl are grandparents to five grandchildren. In addition to parenting together, Jim and Sharryl wrote textbooks and other school materials, presented at scores of professional conferences, and conducted teacher training in the US and internationally. Other aspects about Jim he would want you to know: he loved golf, winning 2nd in the Montana High School Golf Competition and playing regularly well into his 70s . He served in the US Army and Army Reserves for six years, traveled to 94 countries, embraced Christian faith in his 50s, and could watch TV sports for hours with his eyes closed (aka napping). He had an inquisitive but exacting mind which was offset by a surprisingly funny, playful side; had a taste for bourbon; was an unabashed Democrat, could shine on any dance floor; and was sometimes prickly. Sadly, Jim suffered dementia his last two years but was able to be at home where the family and amazing hospice nurses were treated to occasional flashes of the old Jim. Jim is survived by his Wife: Sharryl. Children : Katherine Elizabeth Davis, Lacy, WA; David Montague Davis (Karie), Lacy, WA; Mark Hawke (Elise), Erie, CO; Grandchildren : Kristofer Girton, Lacy, WA; Taylor Davis, Lacy, WA, Noah Davis Lacy, WA, Joshua Hawke, Erie, CO, Ana Hawke, Erie, CO. Sibling: Katherine Clarke (Charles), and her children, Roz Thompson and Bill Clarke, all Lacy, WA. A memorial service to celebrate Jim's life will be held Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 2:00 pm in the chapel at Grace Commons Church (formerly First Presbyterian), 1820 15th St., Boulder, CO. Memorial gifts to Grace Commons or a charity of your choice.