Kenneth Elwood Davis

Kenneth Elwood Davis, also known as Damani Yero and Beqsuf, 77, died on January 1, 2024. A native of Richmond, Virginia, he spent over five decades as a proud resident of Washington, D.C. He is survived by two sisters, Shirley B. Davis II, and Charlene Cousins (Raymond); four sons, Jumoke Davis (Sheila), Sunmer Davis (Nicol), Asa Davis (Whitney), and Ramu Davis-Johnson (Noelle), born from his cherished relationships with Susan Sinclair, Carolyn Davis, and Deborah Johnson. Each of these women played an important role in his life and remained a part of his close and extended family circle. He is also survived by his cousins, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Alberta Davis; and his brothers, William (Shirley), Lorenza (Hilda), and Thornton Davis (Loretta).

Kenneth loved African culture. He was an early member of the Ausar Auset Society, an Afrocentric spiritual organization. He sent all of his sons to Afrocentric private and charter schools.

He was a lover of the arts and a music (jazz) aficionado. He wrote poetry and was involved in the DC Black Repertory in various stage productions. He was keenly involved in civil rights and voiced concern for human rights worldwide. He also loved the outdoors and living a healthy lifestyle; he was often hiking or biking in Rock Creek Park and throughout Washington, D.C.

He had a diverse career, first working for American Airlines. He traveled to several countries throughout his life. As an early advocate of food coops, he worked for Community Warehouse, Bethesda Coop, Glut, and TPSS. He became a sports referee, embarking on a career that spanned over 30 years. He enjoyed watching sports and leading fantasy sports leagues. With a love for soccer, and was instrumental in his sons being student-athletes and graduating from college. Kenneth's true joy came from spending time with his family, treasuring every gathering, and always greeting everyone with a hug.

A memorial service will be held on January 27 from 1-3 p.m. at the John Lewis Elementary School, 1335 Farragut St. NW, Washington, DC 20011. There will be remarks during that time.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Martha's Table (https://marthastable.org/donate/) in Kenneth's name. If you choose to send an e-card to notify the family of your donation, please send it to KennethDavisMemorial@gmail.com.