James (Jim) R. Davis

James (Jim) R. Davis, 82, passed away February 21, 2019 surrounded by family and friends.

Born 1936 in northwest Arkansas, he relocated to Wichita, KS where he owned and operated Davis Brothers Standard Service (with brother Doyle) and was a licensed insurance agent. Later, he was an award-winning machinist for Boeing Aircraft in the tool and die division where he developed no less than three patented tools supporting their initial development and production of the legendary Boeing 747 “Jumbo Jet”. Jim and family moved to Batesville AR in 1968 and opened Davis Grocery (formerly Halls Store and Sutton’s Grocery), which expanded to Ruddell Hill Boot and Shoe Repair and later Ruddell Hill Pawn.

A devoted family man and servant-leader, Jim quietly opened Davis Tax Service in 1969 responding to the community’s need for its first professional financial and accounting services. He was a founding member of the Ruddell Hill Volunteer Fire Department where he designed and built their first fire station; he was a founding member of the board of directors for North Arkansas Christian School where he also helped design and build their gymnasium and fundraising efforts; and was a founding and faithful member of North Heights Church of Christ.

Jim is survived by Wanda Ruedine Davis (wife of 55 years), Mark & Michael Davis (sons), Angela Wycough Davis (daughter-in-law), Macy and Reagan Davis (grandchildren) as well as three brothers: Clarence Davis, Doyle Davis, Ray Davis and a host of family and friends. He was preceded in death by Ed & Oma Davis (parents) and Raymond Davis (infant brother).

Honorary pallbearers are David Davis, Chad Davis, Tommy Jones, Dr. Edward Myers, Darin Martin, Jeff Qualls, Floyd Owens, Bill Whittington, Greg Ade.

Family visitation is 1pm at North Heights Church of Christ Sunday, February 24, immediately followed by a celebration of life service at 2pm. Flowers and condolences may be directed to Qualls Batesville Funeral Services.