Long-time State Senator Jackson Davis Passes Away

Shreveport attorney and former State Senator Jackson Davis has died at age 98.

Senate President John Alario, Jr., and Senator Barrow Peacock have released a statement on Davis' passing.

"It is with great sadness that Sen. Barrow Peacock and I note the passing of former District 37 State Senator Jackson Davis, who represented parts of Caddo and Bossier Parishes for almost a quarter of a century," Alario said. "The long-time Shreveport resident and Lecompte native was a true gentleman who worked tirelessly to represent his Northwest Louisiana constituents and stepped up time and again to serve his community."

Peacock, who represents the people of District 37, said Senator Davis entered public service on a whim.

"He was standing at the Clerk of Court's office 30 minutes before no one else filed to run against the incumbent, trying to decide if he should enter the race," Peacock said. "He called to ask his wife's opinion about a possible Senate bid. Thankfully, she was not at home, because she says she would have said no and Louisiana would have lost the benefit of Senator Davis' steady counsel and leadership. He was a remarkable man and an amazing example of being a role model and striving to be a true public servant."

Davis was a practicing attorney for about 70 years, served as LSU Law School Student Body President, was a World War II U.S. Navy veteran, and was instrumental in the establishment of Louisiana State University in Shreveport. Beginning in 1956, he served six consecutive four-year terms in the Louisiana State Senate. He chose not to seek a seventh term.

Visitation is set for 5-7 p.m. Friday, August 26, with his funeral at 11 a.m. Saturday, at Osburn Funeral Home on Southern Avenue.