James W. DavisLyerly

James William Davis, age 84, of Lyerly, GA and formerly of LaFayette, GA, passed on April 9, 2025.

The son of the late William David Davis and Mary Louise Hale, James was a 1959 graduate of LaFayette High School. He retired from Shaw Industries of LaFayette, GA and from Riverbend Worm Farm of Lyerly, GA. James was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and was a member of Lyerly Community Church.

James was a devoted grandfather who cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren. His love of the outdoors drew him to fishing, boating, and camping, and he devoted many years of service volunteering at his local church. Generous with his time and skills, he helped countless friends and neighbors with car repairs, home projects, and yard work. He also held a special fondness for his beloved dog, Prince, who was by his side for many years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Jessie Owens Davis; and sisters, Barbara Ann Ware, Jean Bryant, and Patricia Spells.

James is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Shirley Davis of Lyerly, GA; daughters, Janet Hayes of Dalton, GA and Janice (Duane) Jackson of LaFayette, GA; grandchildren, Bethany (Thomas) Wilhoit of Atlanta, GA, John Jackson and Daniel Jackson, both of LaFayette, GA; sisters, Dianne Garland of Port St. Lucie, FL and Dee Kotla of Alexander City, AL; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 4:00 pm on Sunday, April 13, in the Wilbanks Memorial Chapel with Pastor Marshall Bryan officiating.

Interment will take place in LaFayette City Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be John Jackson, Daniel Jackson, Tony Blaylock, Michael Baker, Reagan Black, and Thomas Wilhoit.

Honorary pallbearers will be the staff of Shepherd Hills.

A visitation will take place on Sunday from 2:00 pm to the hour of service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to either St. Jude Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to Shriners Hospital for Children at [email protected] or 855-511-4830.

Arrangements are by Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.