Jerome was born on April 28, 1955 to Marline and Willie Ben Davis in Middletown, OH. After graduating Middletown High School in 1973, he received a football scholarship to play at The Ohio State University. He played in two Rose Bowls while with Ohio State and then transferred to Florida State University to continue playing football and pursuing his education. Jerome graduated in 1977 from Florida State with a bachelor’s in communications.
He spent 44 years successfully navigating corporate America in various executive leadership roles at Procter & Gamble, Frito-Lay, PepsiCo, Maytag, Electronic Data Systems, Waste Management and Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. Additionally, he served on the board of directors for Apogee Enterprises, GameStop Corp. and Destination DC. He was incredibly talented as a people leader and revenue generator, but his proudest accomplishment was the many people he positively impacted through mentorship and talent development. Jerome was an assertive, communicative, and driven leader that influenced everyone he worked with.
Jerome was blessed with a large and loving family. Jerome married his wife, Cynthia, in December 1977. 45 years of marriage produced cherished memories and four children. He was a devoted husband and father. His family was his top priority and they brought him so much joy and happiness.
Jerome enjoyed playing golf, a fine cigar, listening to Miles Davis or Earth, Wind and Fire and spending time with his wife traveling the world and enjoying the arts. He was a man of integrity which stemmed from his relationship with God. His faith was a vital part of his life. Throughout the years Jerome also made contributions to charitable causes and created a foundation in his mother’s name supporting higher education.
Jerome is predeceased by his mother, Marline Lightford-Davis; father, Willie Ben Davis; and sister Melody Davis. He is survived by his wife Cynthia Davis; son, Champ (wife Virginia); daughters Dana, Nicole (husband Oronde), and Rachel; his six grandchildren Tatiana, Xavier, Aribella, Anistasia, Jerome III, Oronde Jr.; sister, Georgia Mack; brothers, Jimmie Davis and Clardy Joe Davis.
A memorial service will be held December 18th at 2PM with burial and reception to follow at Robert Toale & Sons 170 Honore Ave. Sarasota, FL 34232.The family will receive friends from 1-2 pm at the funeral home. Flowers can be sent to Robert Toale & Sons 170 Honore Ave. Sarasota, FL 34232; addressed to the Davis Family. Thereafter or in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Westcoast Black Theater Troupe 1012 N. Orange Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236.
