JAMES DAVIS SR.

Funeral services for James Burnell Davis Sr., affectionately known as "JB," will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 25, 2019, at Greater Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church, 515 N. Main St., Sumter, with Bishop Dr. Marvin Hodge officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery, Dinkins Mill Road, Rembert.

The public may view on Thursday from 2 to 5 p.m. at Palmer Memorial Chapel, 304 S. Main St.

Mr. Davis will be placed in the church at 10 a.m. for further viewing until the hour of service.

"JB" transitioned on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Sumter. He was born in Borden to the late Richard Sr. and Mamie Davis. He attended school in the Sumter County Public School District.

"JB's" Christian journey began at a young age. He was a life-long member of Greater Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church and served faithfully as the groundskeeper and as a choir member. Mr. Davis was first employed at Sumter Machinery Inc. and later became the founder and CEO of Davis Construction Inc. Along with his profession, he had a passion for farming and was known for his sugar cane production.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Varine "Hippie" Davis, and four siblings, Richard Davis Sr., Elouise Davis Myers, Wadell "Ray" Davis and Esther Davis Myers.

Survivors include: six children, Arthur (Geneva) Davis, Corine (Edward) Mays of Atlanta, Georgia, Earnestine (Theodore Jr.) Portee, Naomi Mickens, James Davis Jr. and Annie Mae Davis; three grandchildren of the home, Angieleka, Torese and Michael; 22 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Condolences may be made on his tribute page found at: wwwPalmerMemorialChapel.com.

Professional services rendered by Palmer Memorial Chapel Inc.