Jimmie Dan Davis

Jimmie Dan Davis, 86, of Booneville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully in his sleep on the night of August 9, 2026. He was a beloved father, grandfather, godfather, brother, journalist, and friend to many.

Born into poverty, Jimmie Dan grew up without many of the comforts so many take for granted. From an early age, he possessed a deep love of reading and an unmistakable intelligence. A guidance counselor, recognizing his potential but concerned about his influences, reached out to the Evans family and suggested that Jeptha Evans befriend him. Their shared passion for literature sparked an immediate connection, launching a friendship that changed the course of Jimmie Dan's life.

With encouragement, friendship, and practical guidance, he and Jeptha went on to become college roommates and remained lifelong friends. Jimmie Dan worked two jobs while earning his Master's in Communication at the University of Iowa. He went on to work at several newspapers, most notably The Des Moines Register, The Philadelphia Inquirer—where he designed and edited the publication's very first Weekend section—and concluded his distinguished career at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. He dedicated eight years to teaching at Kansas State University, the University of Nebraska, and California State University, Long Beach. A singular highlight of his sports fandom came on April 5, 2003, when he threw out the ceremonial first pitch for the Texas Rangers—a moment many lightheartedly credited for the team's victory that night.

As a journalism professor, colleague, editor, and mentor, Jimmie Dan saw potential in people others might have missed. He made a point of hiring individuals who struggled to fit in elsewhere, dedicating himself to helping them thrive while actively guiding students and former colleagues toward meaningful careers and professional growth.

Jimmie Dan will be remembered for his intelligence, his passion for literature and journalism, his perseverance, and his unwavering generosity toward those who needed someone to believe in them. His legacy lives on in the family, students, colleagues, and many friends whose lives he touched.