James Davis Jr. was born to the parents of Jean Buchanan and James Davis Sr. in Little Rock, Arkansas. James Davis Jr. was affectionately known as JJ to family and friends.

JJ's father, Davis Sr., preceded him in death. 

JJ attended school in the Lonoke School System. He worked in the construction field with Anthony Banks.

JJ was baptized at an early age. JJ recently rededicated his life to our Lord and Savior, joining New Jerusalem Church of God In Christ (COGIC), attending faithfully every Sunday, riding his bicycle; JJ was somewhat of a quiet man. He loved to fish. He fished at least four to five times per week. His fishing buddy was Marcie Ellis. JJ was an excellent cook, preparing his weekly catch of fish. Besides fish, JJ had a sweet tooth for candy, with Butterscotch being his favorite.

JJ leaves to cherish his memory, his mother, Jean Buchanan-Shavers, and a brother, David West of Lonoke, Arkansas, a daughter, Jerrica Davis of Des Moines, Iowa, aunts, Barbara (Howard) Woodson of Kansas City, Missouri, Marilyn (Joel) Johnson of Little Rock, Arkansas, Phyllis Buchanan of Lenexa, Kansas, Odessa Davis-McKinley, Rose Davis, and Evelyn Davis

 of Jacksonville, Arkansas, an uncle, Sanford Buchanan Sr. of Kansas City, Missouri (Cheryl) of Lonoke, Arkansas, cousins, other relatives, and friends.