Colonel James R. Davis

Colonel James R. Davis, 96, of Bloomington, passed away at 8:45 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Stonecroft Health Campus. He was born in Bloomington on April 25, 1929, in the backroom of the Davis House to Downey and Mary (Dickinson) Davis. He married Zella (Archer) Davis, and they were married for 61 years before she passed away on April 25, 2017. James graduated from Bloomington High School in 1947 and later received his Associate’s Degree from Indiana University in 1982. He served in the U.S. Army from 1948-1951 and in the U.S. National Guard from 1951-1977. James gave 46 years of service to Indiana University; starting as a sheet metal worker and advancing to Associate Director of Campus Facilities. During this time, he enjoyed working closely alongside former IU president Herman B. Wells. He was a recipient of multiple awards through the president’s office and was most proud of having won the E. Ross Bartley award. He was a member of the Masons, Fairview Methodist Church, and a volunteer with the American Legion. James loved spending time on his farm and tinkering around with his tractor, cows, and hay. He was especially fond of the many trips to Franklin enjoying “The Spicers.” He was active throughout his life and loved to exercise, dance, and mushroom hunt. He was a major history buff; enjoyed reading military material, collecting antiques, and was fascinated with Native American culture. James is survived by his four children, Theresa, Jimmy (Leslie), Melody (Millard), and Ed (Patricia); grandchildren, Bradley, Jeremy (Sara), Andrew (Kelsey), Steven (Jade), Amber, Meghan, and Alicia (Jordan); grand-dog, Lucy; great grandchildren, Silas, Titus, Sommers, Braden, Kylie, Addie, Kingston, Kendrick, Jackson, and Sawyer; close friend, Jim Koryta; dear neighbor, Thomas; beloved cousin, MaryNelle; caretakers, Beverly and Vitaly; only blood nephew, Bruce Callahan (Josie); and many step nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and sister, Margie Callahan. A Masonic Service for Colonel James R. Davis will be held at Allen Funeral Home in Bloomington at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026. His Funeral Service will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Visitation for family and friends will be held after the Masonic Service until the start of the Funeral Service. Burial will follow at Valhalla Cemetery with Military Graveside Rites.

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Colonel James R. Davis

April 25, 1929 - February 22, 2026