Jimmy Wilbern Davis

Jimmy Wilbern Davis, formerly of Waco, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, at his daughter's home in Austin, Texas. He was 94 years old. Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 30 at Grace Gardens Funeral Home. A Graveside Service will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 1 at Waco Memorial Park.

Jimmy was born in Tenaha, Texas, to Wilbern A. and Vennie L. (Nix) Davis on July 14, 1929. He grew up in Jasper County, Texas, before moving to Waco on Nov. 11, 1945. Jimmy graduated from Waco High School in 1947 and attended Four-C Business School.

On Oct. 5, 1948, Jimmy began working for the William Cameron Company. There he met Ora Mae Jones, and on Dec. 21, 1951, they married at Edgefield Baptist Church. Later he would be ordained as a deacon and teach Sunday School. Jimmy served as a longtime member of Westwood Baptist Church. In 2001, he and Ora Mae joined Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, where he enjoyed many years of singing with the Senior Saints and meeting for Monday coffee at Richland Mall.

Jimmy enjoyed playing hymns on his piano, cooking and gardening. He was well-known for his Christmas cookies and candy. Jimmy was very proud of his pecan trees, daylilies and iris bed.

Jimmy retired from CertainTeed in 1991 after 43 years of service. In retirement, he enjoyed watching Baylor sports, especially basketball, and the Texas Rangers. Described by many of his friends as a kind and gentle man, Jimmy continually proved a genuine care for others, especially his family.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, his parents, his sister, Frances E. Steuck, and his beloved son-in-law, Owen R. Grad.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Karen Davis Grad; grandsons, Matthew Grad and Benjamin Grad (Jackie); great-grandchildren, Max and Camille Grad; nephew, Mike Steuck; and niece, Sandra Steuck.

A special thank you goes to those who took such great care of Jimmy: Haleigh, Maria and John; Gloria, Carolyn and Valerie from St. David's Hospice and Family Care; and his Waco doctors.

“To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors.” - Tia Walker

Grandpa Jimmy, you will be greatly missed.