Mr. James Darnell "Jd" Davis

When the sun rose on March 18, 1940, a bright light entered the world in the person of James Darnell Davis, born in Arkansas to the loving union of Lila and Jim Davis. From his earliest days on the old Grimm Farm, young James displayed a remarkable sense of curiosity, discipline, and intellect. Even as a boy, he balanced his studies with hard work in the fields, helping his family with sharecropping while maintaining his commitment to education.
Though he sometimes missed classes to tend to the land, his determination never wavered. He caught up on lessons, excelled in his studies, and proudly graduated from Lincoln High School-a testament to his steadfast will and perseverance.
Affectionately known as "J.D.", he continued his educational journey at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics. While at UAPB, he pledged the illustrious fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha, Gamma Delta Chapter, an affiliation that deepened his lifelong devotion to leadership, service, and brotherhood.
Ever ambitious, J.D. set his sights higher-both literally and figuratively. He relocated to Los Angeles, California, where he pursued and obtained a Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Southern California (USC).
A man whose mind was filled with brilliance and innovation, J.D. made significant contributions to the field of aerospace technology. While working with the companies TRW and ASG, he played an instrumental role in the development of the Hubble Telescope and contributed to the design of the Space Station that continues to orbit the earth today. His genius, humility, and tireless work ethic left a lasting imprint on the scientific world.
Over forty years ago, James met the love of his life, Rosia, and together they built a marriage grounded in faith, partnership, and joy. Affectionately called "The Dynamic Duo," the couple blended their lives and families with love and harmony-raising two cherished children, Marcus Davis and Kimberly Autry-Peoples, and nurturing a home filled with laughter, learning, and the presence of God.
After retiring from his distinguished aerospace career, James and Rosia relocated to Forrest City, Arkansas, where he fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a farmer. With the same dedication that defined his professional life, J.D. applied his intellect and discipline to the land. The couple purchased acreage on Linden Island, cultivating soybeans, winter wheat, and milo, while encouraging others to rediscover the beauty and value of farming. His passion for agriculture even inspired his daughter to begin raising Black Angus cows, continuing the Davis family's connection to the earth.
James began his farming career alongside his close friend Dr. Calvin King at ALFDC in Fargo, Arkansas, where he quickly became a leader in agricultural advancement. His vision extended beyond his own fields-he worked diligently to write grants, support Black farmers, and establish youth agricultural programs such as Youth Enterprise Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, empowering future generations with the tools and confidence to succeed.
Always motivated by his love for community, James's vision helped birth tangible progress across Eastern Arkansas. The development of The Stonebrook Houses in Forrest City, Marianna, and Wynne stand today as monuments to his faith-driven commitment to creating opportunity and stability for others.
J.D. was known for his green thumb and his deep connection to the land. He planted a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, often sharing his harvest with neighbors and friends. His passion for growing led him to construct a hoop house on his property, symbolizing his endless belief in cultivation-both of the soil and of the human spirit.
Those who knew J.D. will remember his sharp wit, storytelling charm, and laughter that could fill a room. He possessed a unique gift for turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. Whether in the field, at church, or among family, his humor and wisdom uplifted everyone in his presence.
Beyond his many accomplishments, James Darnell Davis was first and foremost a man of God. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great-grandfather who lived with humility and grace. His faith guided every decision, and he found joy in studying and teaching the Word of God. He was a respected leader in his church community, faithfully teaching Men's Sunday School and Bible Study, helping others grow spiritually as he himself walked closely with the Lord.
He was an active member of Light of the World International Church in Sarasota, Florida, under the leadership of Senior Pastor Kelvin Lumpkin and Executive Pastor Peter Greenidge. Upon returning to Arkansas, he continued to serve faithfully at Beth Salem Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Eric Holloway, where he remained active until his transition.
When the sun set on October 5, 2025, heaven gained a servant whose work on earth was complete. J.D. was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Lila and Jim Davis, and two sisters, Bernice Smith and Gladys White.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife Rosia Davis of Forrest City, Arkansas; one son Marcus (Catrece) Davis of Marion, Arkansas; one daughter Kimberly (Lenard) Peoples of Memphis, Tennessee; two granddaughters Ebony Davis (Kenneth Cauley) and Loren Davis, both of Memphis, Tennessee; one grandson Julian (Brittany) Hughes of Forrest City, Arkansas; five great-grandsons Asa Brown, Honest Davis, Kenneth Cauley, III "Tres", all of Memphis, Tennessee, Loyal Davis of West Memphis, Arkansas, De'Mario "DJ" Westbrooks, Jr. of Forrest City, Arkansas; one great-granddaughter Serenity Julia-Rose Hughes of Forrest City, Arkansas; two sisters Lucille Strong of East Palo Alto, California, and Emmer Price of Forrest City, Arkansas; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
He will forever be remembered for his intelligence, compassion, humor, and unwavering faith-a man whose legacy continues to inspire all who were blessed to know him. His life was a living example of what it means to walk with purpose, serve with heart, and live as a true reflection of God's workmanship.