Jim Davis, a resident of Sylmar and Los Angeles Marathon legacy runner, passed away on July 19. He was 85 years old.
A celebration of life will be held in his honor at the Church on the Way’s Hayford Prayer Chapel in Van Nuys, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29.
Davis was a legacy runner, the unofficial moniker for runners who have participated in the LA Marathon every year since it was launched in 1986. He ran his final marathon in 2024, when he received his 39th medal for completing his 39th consecutive race.
But Davis was a legacy in more ways than one, according to his longtime friend Debra Snell.
“He believed in using his life as an example of what God wants us to do, which is to take care of humanity,” Snell told the San Fernando Valley Sun/el Sol. “He was always very kind and giving to anyone in need. He was a bright light. … Now we get to carry on his legacy of service.”
Davis was preceded in death by his son Justin Davis; he is survived by his son Jason Davis and four grandchildren.
Davis was a veteran of the U.S. Navy; there will be a flag folding and presentation during the service on Aug. 29. The Hayford Prayer Chapel is located at 14344 Sherman Way in Van Nuys.
For more information, call (818) 606-2377.