James "Jimmy" Edward Davis, Sr.

With sadness and love the family of James Edward “Jimmy” Davis announces his passing on August 12, 2021 at his longtime home in Azle. The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 15, from 6-8 p.m. at White’s Funeral Home in Azle. Jimmy’s celebration of life will be held on Monday, August 16, 2021 at 10 a.m. at White’s Funeral Home in Azle. There will be a graveside service with full military honors on Tuesday, August 17, at 2 p.m. at Levelland Cemetery in Levelland, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Azle Christian Church or the American Cancer Society. Jimmy was born in Winston Salem, North Carolina on December 24, 1935, which is fitting because he was truly a gift to all who knew him. On March 5, 1956 Jimmy joined the United States Air Force and had a distinguished 21-year career. In 1961, as a member of the 32nd MMS his team won the Munitions Loading Competition and became the Strategic Air Command worldwide champions. On that day in May, Jimmy and his fellow teammates received the last “on the spot” promotions the Air Force has ever provided. The trailer he and his life-long friends used is now in a museum at Wright-Patterson Air Force base in Ohio. Jimmy’s success in the Air Force is a reflection of how he lived his life. His superiors described him throughout his career as “devoted, tireless, dedicated and outstanding.” Those lucky enough to have known Jimmy would describe him in the same terms and would add “provider.” He provided laughter in the form of his never-ending supply of jokes. Jimmy provided hand-crafted wooden decorations to all of those he loved. He provided the best slow cooked barbeque brisket in Texas. Jimmy provided proof that shirt buttons should be left undone to the greatest extent possible. He provided untold treasures from flea markets. Jimmy provided car repairs and restorations. He provided stories filled with family lore. Jimmy gave all of himself to those he loved; his hands, his songs, his knowledge and his time. In death, Jimmy is reunited with his parents, William Henry and Ada Chandler Davis; and siblings, William, Tommy, Bobby, Clyde, Helen, May and Mary; and his son, Timothy Lee Davis. He is survived by his wife, and constant companion, Dannie Jean Davis; sons James Jr. (Cathy) and Daniel (Bonnie) Davis; his daughter in law, Rachel Davis; and his sister, Lana Ruth Kite. Jimmy was blessed with 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Those 35 people that called him Papa are his greatest legacy. Jimmy will also be remembered by numerous extended family members and friends that have had the singular joy of becoming family.