Colonel James H. Davis

Jim was an Eagle Scout, President of the Senior Class at Dreher High School and a nationally ranked high school sailor. He set a South Carolina track record while at Dreher that stood for 10 years.

He received an appointment to the Coast Guard Academy in 1967 and was an outstanding member of their track team. Jim was awarded an academic and track scholarship at the University of South Carolina and graduated in 1972 with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and was selected as an “Outstanding Senior.”

Jim was a graduate of the Naval War College and obtained Master degrees in both Aeronautical Science and Strategic Studies and National Defense.

He flew F-15s for 26 years in the Air Force and was the Squadron Commander that won the prestigious Hughes trophy for the Best Air-to-Air Squadron. “Opie”, as he was known in the Air Force, was admired by his men and women because of his exemplary leadership, sense of humor and compassion. After serving at the Pentagon and as professor of ROTC Studies at Georgia Tech, Jim retired as a Colonel in 1990 and then was the Chief Pilot for a company that provided air assets for international embassy support.

In 2002, Jim was selected to run a leg of the Winter Olympics torch relay in Columbia.

He was a member of the Charleston Yacht Club and loved to sail, run, and fly and enjoyed woodworking with his beloved granddaughter.

Jim will be remembered for his distinct sense of humor, zest for life and devotion to friends and family.

He is survived by his wife, Salley; his step-son, Elliot Ashley; step-daughter, Carla; granddaughter, Cullum; his sister, Anne Waldrop (Bob); brother, Harry (Ginger); and his adored kitties.

There will be a small private family gathering to spread Jim’s ashes at the University of South Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Animal Protection League, 6084 Old Leesburg Road, Hopkins, SC 29061, will be appreciated.

Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.