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Obituary For Dr. Dernoral Davis
Dr. Dernoral Davis, a beloved professor and department chair who dedicated 35 years to nurturing minds at Jackson State University, passed away on March 3, 2026, in Jackson, MS, at the age of 75. Dr. Davis was born on December 25, 1950, in Jackson, MS, in Hinds County, to the late Douglas and Mildred Little Davis. He pursued a lifelong passion for education, graduating with the class of 1968 from Jim Hill High School. He excelled as a baseball player throughout high school, was well known and recognized as a revered athlete, and was offered upon graduation, an athletic and academic full ride scholarship to Jackson State College. There he went on to receive both his Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees. Dernoral flourished in academia and would later receive his doctorate from the State University of New York in 1975. He began a distinguished career as a professor at Jackson State University (JSU) in 1979 and later transitioned to the role of History Department Chair. Dr. Davis was known for his rigor-driven teaching method and mentor-like support to his graduate students, leaving a lasting impression on colleagues and students alike. He was particularly known for his research, writing skills, publications, and grant-writing-funded programs which exposed students to travel opportunities to participate in cultural, history, and debate competitions and research presentations. Other notable career highlights include, but are not limited to, contributing to the planning for the restoration of Ayers Hall, the oldest building on JSU’s campus, a continued supporter of the Margaret Walker Alexander Research Center (Margaret Walker Center), and an advisor to the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum located in downtown Jackson. He also was a member of the Mississippi Humanities Council. In addition to being a notable educator, Dr. Davis was a leading graduate school advisor for the Masters Degree in the History Program. Dr. Davis was a tireless advocate for students, often staying late to help those in need and mentoring younger faculty and staff. “Dr. Davis was more than a professor; he was a mentor who encouraged us to believe in ourselves”, noted a former student. Outside the lecture room, Dr. Davis enjoyed watching sports, especially watching his favorite baseball team, the New York Yankees, and loved spring camp opening season that he shared with a close-knit group of friends and family members. Dr. Davis was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas and Mildred Little Davis; his sister, Cherlyn Lewis; a son, Darrius M. Davis; and a brother, Rick J. Davis. He is survived by a son, Diedrick Davis; grandchildren: Micayia, Bryce, Harmoni, and Darrius Jr.; a sister, Jackline Lester; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, professional colleagues, and friends, including a dear friend, Bobbie Bingham Morrow, who will forever cherish his memory. Dr. Dernoral Davis will be remembered as a man of principle, heart, and purpose. His 35-year legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his work and dedication to education. He will be deeply missed. His family and friends will honor Dr. Davis with a celebration of life tribute service at West Haven Funeral Chapel on March 19, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. A dove release will occur prior to the start of service; there will not be a funeral or viewing on this date.
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Thank you Dr. Davis. I mention you every school year to my students, as I try to be the same type of teacher that you are. You changed my life for the better my senior year at JSU, as you helped me to find direction with my life. I am grateful to have had you as a teacher and a mentor. Being a history major at JSU is such a memorable time in my life as you and the department poured so much into me.
Praying for the family of a great Professor. As one of his JSU students, he made me appreciate history and more importantly understanding our history. He definitely made me a better educator and historian. Such a great scholar. Rest in Peace.
Praying for comfort and strength for Dr. Davis's loved ones during this difficult time. Dr. Davis was really a pivotal person in shaping me into a historian and educator; he saw something in me that I had not seen in myself. Rest in eternal peace.
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Dr. Davis was an absolute joy to learn from and someone who consistently challenged me to grow in meaningful ways. His impact will not be forgotten.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. I am keeping his family, loved ones, and all who are touched by his life and legacy in my prayers.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
