He’s lived a long, inspiring life. And today, Mr. James Davis, a WWII veteran from Conyers, Georgia, turns 100 years old!
Among the many things he’s done during his long life, Davis has served in the U.S. Navy, traveled around the world, and was even hired as a personal assistant to former president Lyndon B. Johnson.
Then, Davis joined the U.S. Navy as a private first class cook, before serving in United States Merchant Marines for a time.
The centenarian became a father to Lynda Jackson, and she now describes her dad as someone who loves listening to the music of Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye and loves his grandchildren.
She told the news outlet: “He doesn’t realize how impactful he has been in my life.
“His resilience and steadiness, don’t tend to let anything rattle him, knowing my dad you come to love the nuggets that he’ll throw out at you—never let anyone mess up your personality.
“Nothing visibility appears to shake him.”
For Davis, the 100-year milestone isn’t without its regrets, however. His late wife of 20 years, Odessa—whom he'd met through friends, and soon found he had “everything in common” with—passed away a number of years ago, the news outlet reported.
He described her as “the sweetest woman I ever knew,” Jackson said. Within three months of their relationship, they were married. “It’s kind of bittersweet since my mom is not here,” Jackson adds. “They never had an argument.”
Meanwhile, the local community is also marking Davis’s big day, and several cities and organizations offered proclamations commemorating his milestone and his service.
Friends and family gathered to celebrate the occasion on Saturday, Aug. 8, during a proclamation ceremony initiated by Rockdale County, Georgia. Davis has also received honors from Austin and Brookshire in Texas.
And Texas, where Davis was born, is where his heart remains, says Jackson.
Whatever state he chooses to call home, Davis can nonetheless take comfort knowing he’s appreciated for the many lives he has inspired during his life, and for his service to his country and loved ones.
