John Pershing Davis Jr., affectionately known to many as “Coach,” passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, in Flower Mound, Texas, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on August 1, 1944, in Tupelo, Mississippi, and raised in Corinth, Mississippi, John was the eldest of six children—a role he embraced with great love for his siblings and a deep sense of responsibility.
John’s childhood in Corinth was the foundation of a life rich in stories and enduring values. He often shared tales of growing up with his brothers and sister, painting vivid pictures of small-town adventures, sibling mischief, and the bonds that shaped him. These stories became cherished treasures for his children and grandchildren, who knew that John cherished family above everything.
After graduating from Corinth High School, John played baseball at Northeast Mississippi Community College and eventually enrolled at the University of Mississippi. He was the first in his family to attend Ole Miss, graduating in 1967 and becoming a lifelong, passionate supporter of the Ole Miss Rebels—a legacy proudly carried on by his children and grandchildren. He was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity and formed friendships there that lasted a lifetime.
In 1967, John enlisted in the U.S. Army and was commissioned as an officer. He served one tour in Vietnam, where he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, amongst other honors. His bravery in the field and his care for fellow soldiers was defining aspects of his service, and his stories from that time reflected both courage and compassion.
On May 28, 1970, John married JoAnn “Joie” Campbell in Orange County, California. They welcomed three children: Traci Leigh (born in 1971), Kimberly Kyle (1973), while in Laurel, MS and eventually relocated to Ft. Worth, TX where they had Ryan Bradley (1977).
John began a business career in Laurel, Mississippi, and later started his own business as a manufacturer representative, working closely with the Army and Air Force Exchange. But his true calling emerged in 1995 when he founded Select Baseball Incorporated, through which he coached the Texas Reds. Known simply as “Coach” from that point forward, John poured his heart into mentoring young athletes, many of whom went on to play collegiate and professional baseball. In later years, he discovered a new passion for coaching softball, continuing to inspire and guide young players with the same dedication and joy.
John was instrumental in founding the youth program at St. Peter and St. Paul Episcopal Church. He was a devoted Sunday school teacher for teens and adults, and within the church, his faith and love for mentorship found a spiritual home.
He is survived by his beloved children: daughter Traci Hale, daughter Kyle Burdick (Chris), and son Ryan Davis (Angela), JoAnn “Joie” Campbell McCrae, mother of his children, and son-in-law Tyson Hale. He is survived by his treasured grandchildren: Karsyn, Tyler, Luke, Hunter, Camdyn, Leighton, Cale, and Carter. He also leaves behind his siblings Charlotte Grisham, Randall Davis (Brenda), and Michael Davis (Carolyn), along with a large number of nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. All who were touched by his warmth, humor, and generosity.
John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Doris Davis; his brothers Steve A. Davis and Gary W. Davis; his sister-in-law Linda Davis Crocker; his brother-in-law David L. Grisham; his son-in-law Rick Carone; his granddaughter Brennan Hale; his niece Heather Davis; and his nephew Corey Davis.
A man of boundless energy and joy, John loved to be active throughout his life through dance, water skiing, snow skiing, taking long walks, and spending time at the beach. He never met a stranger, never missed a chance to tell a story, and never failed to show up for those he loved. His friendships were deep and enduring, and his presence was often the spark that lit up a room.
John Pershing Davis Jr. lived a life of purpose, passion, and profound love. His legacy lives on in the stories he told, the lives he shaped, and the family he held so dear. He believed, above all, that family bonds should always prevail—and he lived that truth every day.
