On January 4, 2025, Dr. James "Jim" Davis, a loving husband and father, cherished family member, and a trailblazer in Native American education and leadership passed away surrounded by his loved ones.

Dr. Jim Davis (Big Eagle - Chi Migizi) was born on September 2, 1944, to Russell Sr. and Leona (Delorme) Davis on the Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation in Belcourt, North Dakota. The second oldest of ten children, he grew up surrounded by the love and support of his parents and siblings. Throughout his remarkable life, Dr. Davis carried the strength, wisdom, and resilience of his heritage, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Dr. Jim Davis was a lifelong learner and accomplished scholar, though his journey began far from academia. Growing up on a family farm where his parents also held horse races, Jim and his brother Howard became well-known jockeys. It was during these early years that he discovered his love for competition, a passion that extended into high school and beyond. In high school he excelled in track, football, and basketball.

After graduating from Turtle Mountain Community High School in Belcourt, North Dakota, Jim earned a Bachelor of Science from Dickinson State University. During his time at Dickinson State, he excelled in track and field as well as cross country, setting records both individually and as part of a team. Notably, he was a member of the two-mile relay team, alongside Butch Thunderhawk, Charles Lowman, and Don Blevins Sr., which broke the long-standing record at Black Hills State—a record that held for over 30 years.

Jim continued his academic journey with graduate studies at North Dakota State University, earning a Master of Education, followed by a Doctorate of Education from Pennsylvania State University. His dedication to lifelong learning extended to post-doctoral coursework at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), further enhancing his expertise.

Dr. Davis's dedication to education went beyond personal achievement; it became a guiding light that inspired and shaped the lives of countless colleagues and students.

A man of vision and tireless commitment, Dr. Jim Davis held numerous leadership roles throughout his career. He served as President of Turtle Mountain Community College, Teacher, Coach, Program Director, Elementary School Principal, School Superintendent in Rocky Boy Montana, the Wahpeton Indian School, Director of Indian Education Programs for the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction, and Dean of Education at United Tribes Technical College. His influence extended far beyond North Dakota, as he consulted for tribal, state, and federal institutions across the nation, leaving an indelible mark on education, community development, and tribal sovereignty.

His accomplishments were recognized with numerous honors, including being named North Dakota Indian Educator of the Year, a Bush Fellowship Recipient, and induction into the Dickinson State University Athletic Hall of Fame as a Track and field team member and also as an individual. He was also a Golden Hawk Award recipient, the highest honor bestowed upon Dickinson State alumni. An All-American athlete in Track and Field, Dr. Jim Davis carried the spirit of competition and excellence into every facet of his life.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Jim Davis was deeply involved in community service. He volunteered for Little League baseball and football, local church initiatives, and community events like Turtle Mountain Days. His ability to lead extended into governance and policy, serving on prestigious boards such as the National Indian Education Association, American Indian College Fund, and Haskell Indian Nations University Board of Regents to name a few.

Despite his many accolades and far-reaching influence, Dr. Jim Davis' greatest pride was his family. He shared a loving marriage of 56 years to his Carmelita "Lita" (Pleets). They were married on July 6, 1968, and together they raised four children: Scott (Lorraine), Dustin (Laisee), Ray Moore Sr., Kerri (Koleman), and Jayme. In addition, through the traditional Huŋkálowaŋpi (making of relative) ceremony, Dale Brown was taken as a brother, and Mark Fox was taken as a son.

He had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Seanna, Bentlee, Madalynn, Anthony, Angelina, Santana, Scott Jr., Beau, Sylas, Syrenity, Syleigh, and Sylar. His love for his family was unwavering, and his legacy lives on through them.

Dr. Jim Davis is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; siblings Howard (Bernie), Russell Jr. "Chutch" (Stephanie), Maureen (Rick), Alvina (Jerry), Brenda, and Ramona all of Belcourt; Rod (Rose) of New Town, ND and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and godchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents Russell Davis Sr., and Leona (Delorme) Davis; his brothers David Bradley and Glen Clarence, and granddaughter Cecilia Marie.

Dr. Jim Davis was a man of integrity, humility, and boundless dedication to his people. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, knowledge, and love that will continue to inspire generations to come.

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched.

Wake and funeral services will be held at the Turtle Mountain College Auditorium.

Visitation will begin on Thursday, January 9th, at 5:00 PM, followed by the rosary at 7:00 PM. Funeral services will take place on Friday, January 10th, at 10:00 AM, with a meal to follow at the Turtle Mountain College Gymnasium.

Burial will be held in the spring of 2025.

"A life well-lived, a legacy well-earned, and a spirit that will forever guide us."