News Summary
The community of Huntsville, Alabama, is grieving the passing of Dr. Terry Davis, a beloved educator and community servant. He lost his battle with cancer on January 23rd, after a life dedicated to education and mentorship. Dr. Davis not only shaped the lives of countless students during his long career in the Madison County School System but also served his church and community with unwavering dedication. A celebration of his life will be held on January 25th, offering friends and family a chance to honor his legacy.
Dr. Terry Davis, Esteemed Educator and Community Servant, Passes Away After Courageous Battle with Cancer
Huntsville, Alabama – The community is mourning the loss of Dr. Terry Davis, an inspirational figure in education and an unwavering servant to his church and family, who passed away on January 23rd, surrounded by loved ones. He put up a brave fight against cancer, demonstrating extraordinary resilience and strength until the very end.
Born on November 30, 1955, in Albertville, Alabama, Terry was more than just an educator; he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and a dedicated guardian of the community. His passing leaves a notable void in the lives he shaped throughout his extensive career in education and service.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Verlon and Marie Davis. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Kim Lyons Davis, along with their two sons, Stephen Tyler Davis and Matthew Ryan Davis, who is married to Anusha. The family cherishes the precious moments they shared with their two granddaughters, Norah and Avi Davis.
A Lifelong Commitment to Education and Community
Throughout his life, Terry Davis served schools, teachers, students, families, and his church, demonstrating how service and education could create a better world. He graduated from Oxford High School in 1974, where he developed a deep pride for his alma mater. It was here that he built the foundation for a career devoted to nurturing the minds of young people.
After earning his degree from Freed-Hardeman University, where he met Kim, Terry continued to grow academically. He obtained a Master’s Degree from Middle Tennessee State University and later earned a Doctorate of Education from the University of Alabama.
For over four decades, Terry dedicated himself to the Madison County School System, where he held various roles. He began his journey at Madison Academy and served as a Youth Minister at Mastin Lake Road Church of Christ. He taught science, coached various sports, and worked as a guidance counselor. His hard work culminated in his election as the Superintendent of Education for the Madison County School System, where he was recognized for his fair, bipartisan, and visionary leadership.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Service
Dr. Davis was deeply invested in mentoring new educators and fostering dynamic teams that enhanced educational experiences for all students. Even after retiring, he accomplished his lifelong goal of serving as an elder in the Lord’s church, continually contributing to his community through mission work and teaching in the Children’s Ministry.
For the last 25 years, he was actively involved in the growth of the Mayfair Child Development Center at Mayfair Church of Christ. Most recently, he returned to Madison Academy as President, working tirelessly until his health began to decline.
Outside of his professional life, Terry enjoyed annual fall adventures with friends from Oxford High School, cheerfully visiting SEC football stadiums. His love for family shone through as he participated in countless school activities and embraced every opportunity to support his sons’ interests and passions.
A Celebration of Life
The community is invited to gather for a Celebration of Life on January 25th at 3:00 p.m. at Mayfair Church of Christ in Huntsville. Friends and family will have the chance to visit from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the church, creating a warm space to share memories of a man deeply devoted to education and his faith.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to support the Children’s Ministry expansion at Mayfair Church of Christ, Madison Academy, or Steady for Life, Inc. Terry’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through the many lives he touched and the profound impact he made in his community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Huntsville Remembers Dr. Terry Davis: A Community Leader
Additional Resources
- Berryhill Funeral Home: Dr. Terry Davis Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- AL.com: Madison County Superintendent News
- Google Search: Terry Davis Obituary
- The Madison Record: Casey Farris Named President of Madison Academy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Laughlin Service Funeral Home: Carolyn Virginia Swaim Terry Obituary
- Google News: Education in Madison County
- Indiana Funeral Care: Jerome Davis Obituary
- Google Scholar: Educational Leadership
- Limestone Chapel: Jane Coleman Obituary
- Google Search: Madison Academy Education
