Rev. James "Pete" Davis

In Loving Memory of

James "Pete" Davis

James "Pete" Davis, 80, of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025. He was born on May 20, 1945, and spent his life devoted to faith, family, and community.

James confessed his love in Christ at an early age and became a member of Bethany Chapel in Grider Field, Arkansas. His faith continued to guide his life, and he later joined Motley Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, where he served faithfully for many years. In 2016, he was installed as the Pastor of New Jericho Baptist Church, a role he cherished deeply.

A proud graduate of Coleman High School, James loved playing basketball during his school years. Following graduation, he moved to Compton, California, where he attended Theological Seminary School, answering his lifelong calling to serve God.

James had two great passions in life - his faith and his sense of style. His sharp eye for fashion led him to work at Super Bad Clothier in downtown Pine Bluff for 50 years, where he became a beloved figure in the community before retiring in 2015.

Though quiet and reserved, James's heart was full of purpose. He was deeply devoted to his ministry, and one of his proudest accomplishments was preaching the gospel at New Jericho Baptist Church. Just two weeks before his passing, he delivered his final sermon - a reflection of his steadfast dedication to spreading God's word.

James "Pete" Davis will be remembered for his faith, humility, and enduring style - a man who walked with grace and purpose.

He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Cynthia Davis, and his son, Darin Bernard Johnson of Dallas, Texas. He also leaves behind his sisters Mae Epperson of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Ethel Adway of Dallas, Texas; and Beatrice Roaf of Pine Bluff,

Arkansas; along with his brothers L.C. Davis and Edward Smith, both of Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Isabelle Williams and Foster Davis; his sisters Early Mae Fortune of Compton, California, and Anna Alexander of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; and his brother David "Bug" Bennett of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

James is also cherished by five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends - all of whom will deeply miss his presence and remember his life with love.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."

- Matthew 25:21

Visitation Friday, October 24, 2025, from 7:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.at Brown Funeral Home, Pine Bluff, AR.

Funeral service 2:30 p.m. Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Motley Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, Pine Bluff, AR by Pastor Douglas Allen, Sr. Services entrusted to Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR.

The obituary submitted by the Family.