From a young age, Doug was a joyful spirit, known for his infectious laughter and quick wit. He had a natural gift for humor and saw it as his mission in life to make people laugh—a calling he embraced wholeheartedly. He accepted Christ early in life and faithfully followed the Lord’s guidance, later becoming a devoted member of Sugar Hill Church in Texarkana, Arkansas.
Doug’s curiosity bloomed early—especially his fascination with radios. As a child, he was captivated by the voices coming out of that mysterious little box and determined to understand how it worked. This early interest led him to a career in broadcasting that would span decades. After working on the family dairy farm (an experience that helped him decide farming wasn’t his path), Doug pursued a degree in journalism. His creativity knew no bounds—he wrote poems, songs, jokes, and even commercial jingles. He also enjoyed playing in bands, adding music to his long list of talents.
In 1959, Doug began his radio career in Oklahoma. He was later offered a recording contract with a California-based label, which released three of his recordings. However, it was at KCMC Radio in Texarkana where he made a lasting impact, working from 1978 until his retirement in 2000. His voice, humor, and personality made him a cherished part of the community.
Doug met the love of his life, and in 1960 he married Janice McMillon, and shared sixty- five years of marriage together with a deep and enduring bond. When asked how they met, Doug would smile and say, “She was just always around.” He often said she was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. Janice, in turn, said, “I never got tired of having him around.” Theirs was a love story built on laughter, faith, and mutual admiration.
Doug is preceded in death by his parents; his brother-in-law, Wesley McMillon; and sister-in-law, Janene Davis.
He is survived by his loving wife of sixty-five years, Janice McMillon Davis of Texarkana, Texas; two daughters, Deanna Warren and her husband Wesley of Mount Pleasant, Texas, and Debra Gass and her husband Patrick of Weatherford, Texas; one brother, Jerry Davis of DeKalb, Texas; and one sister, Diane Morgan and her husband Dale of DeKalb, Texas. He also leaves behind seven beloved grandchildren: Kaitlyn Bell, Landon Gass, Carter Gass, Daley Moore, Davis Warren, Dayne Warren, and Carina Warren; and five great-grandchildren: Graysen, Kenna, Bennett, Bowen, and Reagan.
Memorial Services will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Sugar Hill Church in Texarkana, Arkansas, with Reverend Phil Smith officiating.
Visitation will be held Monday, August 4, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Bates Family Funeral Home in DeKalb, Texas.
Douglas Jolly Davis leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and the power of a kind word. His voice may be silent now, but his echo will long remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
