James “JL” Davis A Century of Service

Born in Bastrop, Louisiana, on July 5, 1926, Davis was the eldest of 11 children born to Lelia Alford Davis and Ferdinand Davis. Known to family and friends as "JL" or "Bud," he accepted responsibility for helping care for his younger brothers and sisters from an early age. He later attended Lafayette High School in Camden, Arkansas, and worked for International Paper before being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1950.

Corporal James Davis, Korean War veteran, courtesy of the Davis family.

During the Korean War, Davis served as a Combat Infantryman, earning the rank of Corporal. His military decorations included the Combat Infantry Badge, the Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, the United Nations Service Medal, and the Army of Occupation Medal for service in Japan. Like many Black veterans returning home after the war, he encountered discrimination despite his military service. Even so, he remained committed to building a future grounded in hard work, faith, and service.

After marrying Emma Jones, Davis settled in Milwaukee, where the couple raised their son, Michael. He worked at A.O. Smith for 30 years, purchased a home near North 22nd and West Congress streets, and became one of the first Black homeowners in the neighborhood. As more families arrived from the South in search of new opportunities, his home became a welcoming place for relatives and friends beginning new chapters in Milwaukee. Neighbors knew him for the pride he took in his home, his willingness to lend a hand, and the gardening advice he generously shared.

Service remained a constant throughout his life. At Greater Galilee Baptist Church, Davis sang in the choir for decades and regularly volunteered to prepare and serve meals for older adults and people experiencing homelessness. He mentored neighborhood children, supported students at Garden Homes Elementary School, and volunteered with the Boy Scouts, encouraging young people through his example as much as his words.

In 2024, the City of Milwaukee recognized his contributions by dedicating an honorary "James 'JL' Davis" street designation along North 22nd Street. As he celebrates his 100th birthday, his life reflects the enduring influence of faith, family, military service, and community. America's Black Holocaust Museum is honored to preserve his story as part of the history that continues to shape Milwaukee and American history.

Buffalo Rangers — Learn more about Black soldiers who served in the Korean War.

James “JL” Davis Street — Learn more about his honorary street designation and other Milwaukee honorees.