James 'Jim' Merrill Davis

 James (Jim) Merrill Davis, age 69, died peacefully on April 8, 2021, following a lingering illness.  On June 21, 1951, Jim was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Merrill (Jim) and Janice Hancock Davis at Holy Cross Hospital.  Jimi was always a happy child, especially close to his childhood companion and sister Wendy. Always athletic, Jim excelled as a member of the MHS wrestling team before graduating from Murray High School in 1969.  He continued his enjoyment of sports by playing on several baseball summer leagues.  Pursuing his professional interests, Jim attended the University of Utah, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business and advertising and soon went to work for Pearson Enterprises in Salt Lake City.  The year-round sun and resort living persuaded Jim to make a move to Arizona, where he managed the Gold Canyon Golf Resort for many years; his genuine good looks and charming personality made him well-liked among all who had the pleasure of his company. Always remaining close to his family, Jim returned to Salt Lake City in the 1990s to help care for his elderly mother. He resided in the Sugarhouse area where the walkable community afforded him the luxury of meeting many people whom he would greet by name, always taking the time to say a friendly “hello”.  Jim lived a simple life, never looking to tackle the highest mountain, but preferred to find happiness in life’s everyday beauty, a walk around his community, a good Utah Jazz game, a conversation with a friend, a hug from his sister.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother Craig Davis.  Jim is survived by his sister Wendy (Paul) Rosengard; aunts, Shari Davis Tavey and Claudia (Duane) Sleater; and several close cousins who will miss him. The family would like to thank neighbors Kathy and Isaac on Ramona Avenue for their friendship and support and Starks Funeral Home for their care and thoughtfulness.

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart.” -Helen Keller   In lieu of flowers, and in Jim’s memory, go out into the world and look for ways to spread kindness.