James Gordon Davis, Longtime Arkansas Diesel Mechanic, Dies at 65

Davis was a devoted family man who enjoyed stock car racing and camping with friends.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 8:23pm

James Gordon Davis, a 65-year-old diesel mechanic from Harrisburg, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at his home on March 13, 2026, surrounded by his family. Davis had a long career as a mechanic, retiring in 2024 from Timmons Trucking Company in Jonesboro. He was a devoted husband, father, and brother, and enjoyed hobbies like stock car racing and camping with friends.

Why it matters

Davis' obituary highlights the life of a hardworking, family-oriented man from a small Arkansas town who found joy in both his career and his personal passions. His story reflects the experiences of many blue-collar workers in the region who dedicated their lives to providing for their families.

The details

James Gordon Davis was born on December 24, 1960, to George Samuel and Constance (Pagan) Davis. He was preceded in death by several siblings. Davis started working as a diesel mechanic at age 19 at MDR in Jonesboro, Arkansas, and eventually retired in 2024 from Timmons Trucking Company. He married the love of his life, Rhonda Woodward, in 1993, and they shared 33 years of memories together along with five children. Davis enjoyed stock car racing with his brother Jimmy at Crowley's Ridge Raceway and camping at the river with his friends.

  • James Gordon Davis passed away on March 13, 2026.
  • Davis was born on December 24, 1960.
  • Davis retired from Timmons Trucking Company in 2024.

The players

James Gordon Davis

A 65-year-old diesel mechanic from Harrisburg, Arkansas who passed away peacefully at his home.

Rhonda Woodward

Davis' wife of 33 years.

Jimmy Dale Davis

Davis' brother, with whom he enjoyed stock car racing at Crowley's Ridge Raceway.

Frankie and Darlene Thrasher

Friends of Davis' from River Bend that he considered family.

George Samuel and Constance (Pagan) Davis

Davis' parents, who preceded him in death.

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The takeaway

James Gordon Davis' obituary paints a picture of a hardworking, family-oriented man from a small Arkansas town who found joy in both his career and his personal passions. His story reflects the experiences of many blue-collar workers in the region who dedicated their lives to providing for their families.