Jesse B Davis

Jesse B. Davis, 88, of Oxford, Mississippi, died peacefully on January 1, 2026 after a short battle with cancer. Jesse, known affectionately as "Papa," was born on October 9, 1937 in Shelbyville, Tennessee. He is survived by his wife of 69 years and love of his life, Grace Evelyn Smith Davis; his brother James Richard Davis; his four children, Randy (Renee) Davis, Neil (Cheryl) Davis, Toni (the late Mike) Martin, and Donna (Tim) Dukes; his ten grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.

Jesse is preceded in death by his parents James Henry Davis and Margaret Ruth Sudberry Davis, and his sister Martha Lee Hewell.

Jesse served in the US Navy from 1954 to 1973 as a submariner.

He retired after 20 years as a Chief Petty Officer. After leaving the Navy he went on to apply his considerable work ethic in business and real estate. He and Evelyn retired to Melbourne Beach, Florida where Jesse enjoyed spending time on the water fishing with friends and family. He served as an elder in his church, Chapel by the Sea, where he would later be made an Elder Emeritus. Papa loved to entertain and was known for his generosity, his faith, and his enduring support of Ole Miss football.

A funeral service will be held in Oxford, MS at Christ Presbyterian Church on January 10, 2026. Visitation will begin at noon with service to follow at 2:00 pm.