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James A. Davis, age 79, of Jonesborough, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on February 26, 2026, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma brain cancer. Born on October 11, 1946, in New Castle, Indiana, James was the son of the late Andrew Davis and Margaret Davis. He dedicated his life to faith, family, and education, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.

James earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education, studying at Milligan University, Butler University, and Ball State University. He devoted his career to teaching, specializing in science education. As an educator, he inspired countless students with his curiosity, steady encouragement, and passion for learning.

A man of strong Christian faith, James loved Jesus and was never afraid to share that love with others. He faithfully served his church by leading men’s Bible studies and volunteering wherever there was need. Following Hurricane Helene, he helped repair homes and worked on countless projects for those in need. He also generously gave his time and talents through woodworking, DIY projects, and home improvements, always ready to build, fix, or create something for someone he loved.

James was first married to Kathy Davis from 1967 to 1985. In 1987, he married Marjorie Barlow DeLaRosa Davis, and they shared 38 years together.

He is survived by his wife, Marjorie; his children, Jami Luzadder (Mike), Kari Patton (Eric), Raquel DeLaRosa, Antonio DeLaRosa (Erika), and Benjamin DeLaRosa; and his treasured grandchildren, McKaila Patton, Andee Patterson (Nathaniel), Malachi Patton, Kathryne Patton, Eli Patton, Aidyn Patton, Hannah Leslie (Zach), Isaac Luzadder, Ethan Pestana, Landen DeLaRosa, Jace DeLaRosa, and Micah DeLaRosa. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Leo Patterson, Hazel Patterson, and Daisy Patterson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Kathy Davis.

James will be remembered for his playful spirit and deep devotion to his family. On more than one occasion, he was known to chase his children around the house just to make them laugh when they were upset. Christmas story time was a treasured annual tradition, filled with warmth, joy, and togetherness. He never stopped telling his family how much he loved them and showed it in both word and action. His life was anchored in the truth of 2 Corinthians 4:18: "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, March 7, at Boone’s Creek Christian Church. Friends are invited to gather at 10:30 a.m. ET, with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m., being officiated by Ben Cole.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Boone’s Creek Christian Church Building Campaign.

James leaves behind a legacy of faith, integrity, service, and unconditional love. Though he will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the promise of eternal life and the assurance that what is unseen is eternal.