Beverly James Davis, Jr., 1921-1991

The sanctuary reverberated with the strong voices of the faithful lifted in hymns of praise. The memorial service held for Dad on December 28, 1991, at Central United Methodist Church in Richmond truly was a celebration of a life that had been dedicated to the Lord's work.

Beverly James Davis, Jr. was born in the Surry County community of Dendron, Virginia, on May 4, 1921. After spending his early years in Tidewater, Virginia, his family settled in Richmond. During his teen years, he received God's call to the ministry and began to prepare for his life's work. Following his graduation from John Marshall High School in 1939 and Randolph-Macon College in 1942, he began his divinity studies at Candler School of Theology at Emory University. His education was interrupted when he enlisted in the U. S. Army in 1943 during World War II. His2-1/2 years of military service included a 10-month tour of duty in the Aleutian Islands as a chaplain's assistant.

In 1946, he returned to Richmond, enrolled in Union Theological Seminary, and accepted a student appointment to Kenwood Church, where he met and married Conna Lawhead. Their marriage produced three sons who, he used to say, brought them three daughters. Five grandchildren followed and became a focal point in their lives.

A pastoral career lay ahead that would span 42 years and cover 22 churches on 12 charges. During his various pastorates, Dad was quite active in the communities he served. In his earlier years he sought out opportunities to participate as a member of volunteer fire departments and rescue squads, actively fighting fires and bringing physical comfort to the injured. From 1965 through 1986, he dedicated countless hours to his additional duties as assistant secretary of the Virginia conference and editor of the conference Journal. His attention to detail and commitment to the task were well-known throughout the conference. Many civic organizations benefited from his membership and community ministries and ecumenical associations frequently were the focus of his attention. An able preacher and a compassionate pastor, he was well thought of by many.

Mom died in 1985. Dad said the "fun" went out of his ministry after that. He retired in 1987 and then fell ill two years later. Even in his difficulties, he exhibited his great faith. His determination not to be defeated nor to give up touched many lives. After a hospitalization that lasted over two years and having lost his right leg, he was rewarded with three months of independence back in his own home where he was able to achieve a remarkable level of activity and mobility. On December 15 at his home church, Asbury, he preached what would prove to be his last sermon.

Dad died on Christmas Day. Somehow that seemed appropriate. He had been so sick and had suffered so much we could not wish for him to linger. He was buried in Maury Cemetery next to Mom, a few steps away from his parents and grandparents and within sight of Asbury's original location. Their grave is marked with a stone he designed. It features our church's cross and flame logo and is inscribed "Together they Served,"

 

-B. James Davis, III