James Clarke Davis

James Clarke Davis II died peacefully on November 3, 2024, in his beloved Atlanta home.

Born on October 6, 1951, in Winchester, Virginia, Clarke was the son of the late Jean Olive Brill Davis and James Clarke Davis. Clarke attended John Handley High School and was a standout athlete on the football field playing quarterback as well as defensive back. He was the point guard on the basketball team, while also excelling in pole vaulting and the mile relay. His athleticism culminated in an "All Area" distinction during his senior year before graduating in 1970. Clarke then attended Catawba College, where he played quarterback on the football team and graduated with a degree in Business in 1974.

Clarke's work ethic was evident from a young age; his summer jobs included helping to construct the General Electric Plant and working construction for Route 37. These jobs allowed him to buy his cherished 1973 red MG convertible, which remains a prized possession to this day.



Once leaving Birmingham, Alabama in 1980, Atlanta became Clarke's home for the last four decades. He built a successful career in finance, working with International Harvester Company, Westinghouse, ITT, and First Source Bank. Clarke also enjoyed real estate, often taking personal care of his properties' yards, embodying his hands-on approach to everything he did.

Clarke's passion for sports found a new expression through coaching his children as well as witnessing their achievements. As a coach, he received many accolades and awards, but his most notable one was when he coached Jimmy's football team, the Atlanta Colts, to victory in the 1993 Sunshine Bowl- which earned him the Georgia Youth Football Coach of the Year honors. His daughter Caroline's athletic career brought him particular joy, as he watched her earn Hall of Fame honors at both Marist School and Connecticut College. Among his favorite stories to share was of his youngest, Meg, whose fierce competitive spirit led referees to declare "She can play with the boys" when she joined her older brother's basketball team. When Clarke wasn't coaching, the bleachers and sidelines became his second home, where he could often be found celebrating his three children.

Known for his vibrant personality, Clarke captured the nickname "Poncho". With his infectious smile, perpetual perfect tan, and his collection of memorable sayings, he lit up any room he entered. He never met a stranger and brought humor wherever he went. He was a proud 40-year member of The Great Characters of Atlanta and was known for his love of Maryland football (evident by his collection of turtles), oriental rugs spread throughout his house, his love for music, and, of course, a well-kept yard.

Clarke is survived by his three children, Caroline Davis (Newport, RI), Jimmy Davis (Phoenix, AZ), and Meg Houghton (Los Angeles, CA), along with six grandchildren and his brother, Dr. Jeff Davis. He is preceded in death by his parents, known to the grandchildren as "Nanny" and "Granddaddy", as well as his sister Magi Davis.

In remembrance of Clarke, his family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate his life in both Winchester and Atlanta. Information on each location for the celebration of life will be shared in the coming months.