James "JD" Darrell Davidson, Sr.

James Darrell Davidson, Sr. was born on August 24, 1951, to James “Bo” and Mary Davidson, in Dillon, South Carolina. He attended Latimer Elementary School in Latta, SC. Later, the family relocated to Brooklyn, New York, where he continued his education at Mark Twain Jr. High School, and graduated from Lafayette High School. He then went on to New York City Community College, and received his Associate of Arts degree from Houston Community College (now Houston City College).

James was always a man to keep busy. He liked to have his own things and understood that hard work was the way to get it. Earning money for his first car, it didn’t stop there. From working at world renowned Nathan's Famous in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York, to “moving on up” to Manhattan, New York, and working for Shell Oil Company, and he relocated his family to Sugar Land, Texas. James retired from Shell in 2018 after 39 years of service.

In 1972, James met the love of his life, LeVonne Rooks and the romance of a lifetime began. They dated for 5 years and were happily married on July 29, 1977. They have enjoyed 48 years of marriage exemplifying love, commitment, and honor. Forever together for 53 YEARS. This devotion and faithfulness to each other brought forth three (3) sons: James Darrell Davidson, Jr., Jarrett Douglas Davidson, and Justin Daniel Davidson. Fatherhood was not only a word, but James proved his love by his many kind deeds. He taught his children to fear God, respect others, and live a life that would glorify God. James loved his family. He attended all of his son’s games and cheered them on. But he was also that disciplinarian to where if you didn’t keep those grades up or if your behavior wasn’t up to par, you would be sitting out a few games.

Then, the wonderful grandchildren arrived. Dominic (6), Giavonna (4), Jase (4), and James III (3). James was happiest with his grandchildren around him. Never a dull moment. He cherished every moment that they would call “PaPa”, or ask “Where’s PaPa”? They were indeed the joy in his heart and the apples of his eyes.

Joining McGee Chapel in 1993, and baptized by Rev. Walter K. Berry, Sr., James was a dedicated Usher and loved serving the Lord. And James ushered every Sunday. He was a Youth Usher Director for many years, and also facilitated training the Ushers. He was truly one of God’s finest door keepers. James was also an appointed member of the Count Team. He loved serving in any capacity at the church that he was asked.

James was a very private person. He was kind, friendly, and approachable; but, you had to be really special to him for him to let you in his world. He loved to have a good time, but he loved his quiet time more. On any given Saturday, we knew it was “western day”. During the week, it would be the news, and Andy Griffith in the evening. James was truthful and he was loyal. And, he LOVED those DALLAS COWBOYS!!! James enjoyed playing pool, fishing, riding his motorcycle, driving his mustang, and most of all, he was passionate about working with Serenity Mortuary, “Where Excellence Is the Standard”, for 25 years as a Service Attendant.

James leaves behind a legacy of love and gentle kindness. His life was made up of many chapters in the Book of Life. He truly loved the Lord, and this was exemplified in all that he said and did.

James was preceded in death by his parents: Mary J. Davidson-Hinds and James “Bo” Davidson, and his grandmother: Mary C. “Sissie” Ingram.