JAMES DAVIS
06/20/1951 – 09/27/2025
With profound love and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of James Earl Davis, 74, of Clarington, Ohio. On September 27, surrounded by the family who loved him beyond measure, James peacefully left this world and stepped into eternity, where long-awaited reunions awaited him.
For 22 years, James carried in his heart the memory of his beloved wife, Kathryn Arlene Francis Davis (Watkins). Their love was the kind that time and distance could never diminish. Every day after her passing, he longed for her smile, her presence, and the life they built together. Today, that longing is over. Their love story, one of devotion and an unshakable bond, is complete once more. Hand in hand, they are reunited in heaven, joined by their sons, Matthew Arron Davis and James Christopher Davis. The thought of them all together again, whole, laughing, and at peace, brings comfort even as our hearts ache from the weight of missing him here.
James’s greatest joy was his family. He was more than a husband, father, grandfather, or great-grandfather; he was the very heart of his family. He leaves behind his devoted daughter, Fay Foreman, and her husband, Ronald Foreman; his son, Jeffrey Davis; and his wife, Jennifer Davis. His proudest legacy shines through his 15 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. To them, he was never just “Dad” or “Grandpa.” He was the steady hand that guided them, the storyteller who filled rooms with laughter, the quiet protector who gave his love freely and without condition. His family will forever carry the lessons he taught, the love he gave, and the strength he embodied.
A true fisherman and hunter, James loved the simple joys of life. He found peace casting a line in the river, waiting patiently for the tug that thrilled him every time. He walked the woods with the steady rhythm of a man who felt at home in nature’s stillness. These were more than hobbies; they were sacred moments where he felt closest to God’s creation. Yet, even in those quiet places, nothing compared to the joy of being surrounded by his family. The sound of laughter around the table, the warmth of holiday gatherings, and the embrace of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, those were the treasures of his life.
His absence leaves an emptiness that words cannot fully capture. The chair he once filled is empty. The voice that once brought comfort is silent. The hugs that once made everything feel safe are now only memories. And yet, even in this sorrow, his love continues to surround us. It is stitched into the fabric of our lives, woven into every story retold, carried in every heart that beats because of him, and passed down in every embrace shared among his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Though our tears fall heavy, we take solace in knowing James is whole again, hand in hand with Kathryn, side by side with Matthew and Chris. He is no longer bound by pain or longing. He is free. He is at peace. And he is home.
His love is our inheritance. His memory, our comfort. His legacy, our guiding light. Until we meet again, Dad, you will be carried in our hearts forever.
In keeping with James’s wishes, there will be no funeral or viewing. He wanted to be remembered exactly as he was strong, loving, and full of life.
Gone fishing with the angels.
Arrangements by Bauer-Turner Funeral Home, Woodsfield, Ohio.
