James "Jim" W. Davis

James “Jim” W. Davis, born on June 10, 1946, in Bellefontaine, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on March 9, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio. A graduate of Central High School, Jim proudly served in the Army and Army Reserves from 1966 to 1994. A Vietnam Veteran who also served in Operation Desert Storm, he was a highly decorated service member whose commitment to his country defined much of his life.

Jim built a long career as a mechanic at Ft. Hayes before becoming self-employed and owning JD’s Maintenance. Known as a jack of all trades, he was always busy with projects around the neighborhood, earning the affectionate nickname “Lawn Ranger.” In his free time, he found joy in fishing and boating, cherishing every moment spent outdoors.

To those who knew him, Jim was a man of quiet strength—trustworthy, dependable, and deeply devoted to his family. He expressed his love through acts of service rather than many words. He was a devoted husband to Betty, his wife of 52 years, and a loving father to his daughters, Chrissy (Mike) Crist and Missy (Arkus) Pennington. He adored his grandchildren, Leeann and Hank Haywood, Aiden, Arrik, and Asher Pennington, and cherished the time spent with them. His home was also filled with the companionship of his beloved cats, Hummer and Minnie Cooper.

Jim was the supportive strength of his family and a hero in the eyes of his daughters. He is survived by his loving sister, Marcia Wendel, and brother-in-law, Tom O’Grady, as well as his niece, Pam Bocook, nephews Bobby Bocook, Ryan Pierce, and Wesley Mulpas, Aunt Betty Ganson, many cousins, and countless lifelong friends who admired his character and spirit. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Dorothy (Hawkins) Davis, and his two sisters, Dorothy “Dottie” Coldren and Yvonne “Toodles” O’Grady.