Jacob Lloye Davis Jr. credits his longevity to one simple creed.
“I just trust in the Lord. I always have.”
Davis was recognized last week after having celebrated his 103rd birthday in October. The recognition was delayed due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
The Pierce County Chamber of Commerce presented Davis with a decorative paddle board featuring tobacco leaves, one of his main cash crops during his career as a farmer.
Davis was born in Pierce County October 6, 1921, one of 10 children born to Jacob Lloye Sr. and Carrie James Davis. He graduated from high school in Pierce County and went on to earn his welding degree and farmed until he was drafted into service in World War II. He served in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Intrepid for the duration of the war and was discharged in 1945.
He returned to Pierce County and met and married the love of his life, Janelle Henderson Davis. They will celebrate 78 years of marriage this week, Dec. 1. They have five children, Jay, Jerry, June, Joy and Jane; 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and one greatgreat- grandchild.
He farmed throughout his life, including growing tobacco, soybeans and corn. Davis eventually retired only to start a huge pecan orchard which he is still in charge of.
Davis is a member of Beulah Baptist Church and also served as a former deacon there. He was taken to church there by his parents when he was a baby. He later joined Beulah Baptist and has remained there ever since. He and Mrs. Davis still drive to church every Sunday.
He is a former member of the Pierce County Board of Education. He is also a past farmer of the year, a past grand marshal of the annual Christmas parade and has been recognized by the Pierce County and Ware County Veterans.
He has appeared on RFD TV and in numerous magazines in the area. He was honored by the Blackshear City Council and the Pierce County Commission on his 100th birthday.
