Jay Howard Davis

Jay Davis, age 83, a loving husband of 58 years to Genanne Davis, devoted father of two, and lifelong educator, passed away on January 15, 2026. Born in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, to Howard M. Davis and Marjorie Davies Davis, he graduated from Elyria High School in Ohio, received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University, and a master’s degree from California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks.

He was a passionate advocate for special education and spent 17 years as principal of J. P. Widney High School in Los Angeles. where he touched countless lives with his dedication and kindness. Later, Jay continued his mission at the Los Angeles Unified School District’s Board of Education, working tirelessly to mainstream special education students into schools across the district. Jay co-authored a textbook titled In the Driver’s Seat.

Beyond his career in education, Jay was an avid baseball fan who accomplished the rare feat of visiting every Major League Baseball stadium at least once—often returning to see them again after a stadium was rebuilt. Jay also cherished exploring the world with his family, journeying on road trips across the United States during summer breaks or on long weekend camping trips , creating lasting memories with those he loved. In retirement, he traveled extensively visiting every continent except Antarctica, his favorite trip being an African safari.

An avid marathoner, Jay ran in the LA Marathon multiple times, the Bay to Breakers race in San Francisco, the Hawaii Marathon, and the Big Sur Marathon, along with many other 5K and 10K races with some of his closest friends. He also helped one of the students from Widney High with the 1984 Olympic torch run, where the student was one of the torch bearers.

In his community life, Jay co-founded the Prescott Lakes Pickleball Club, turning a simple game into an opportunity for friendship and fun. In addition, he looked forward to the monthly gatherings of his beloved “doughnut day group” where good pastries and great company came together. Whether in Los Angeles or later in Prescott, Jay formed deep friendships everywhere he went.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ted E. Davis. He leaves behind his wife, Genanne, their two children, Brian (wife Laura), and Greg (fiancé Allison and son August) and a wide circle of family and friends in both Los Angeles and Prescott. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.