Donna Jean Sims Davis was born on March 17, 1935, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Robert and Mary Sims. She passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at her home on Lake LBJ in Kingsland, Texas, surrounded by the love of her family.
Donna grew up in Arlington, Kansas, where she developed the strength, discipline, and determination that would define her life. She pursued her calling in nursing with dedication and excellence, earning her nursing degree from Texas Christian University and later a Master of Nursing degree from Emory University.
Donna married Dr. James (Jim) Buford Davis Jr., becoming not only his partner in life but also a devoted mother to four young children he was raising following the loss of his first wife. Together, Jim and Donna welcomed a fifth child, completing a family of seven that she led with strength, love, and high expectations.
Professionally, Donna taught nursing at West Texas State University and served as an elected council member, believing deeply in giving back to the community and helping shape it for the better.
Donna’s faith was central to her life. She was an active member of Highland Lakes United Methodist Church and remained committed to service throughout her years in Kingsland. She volunteered with Share the Harvest, helping ensure that those in need were cared for with dignity and compassion.
In her personal life, Donna loved playing bridge and cherished time spent with friends and family. She was a wonderful cook and took pride in gathering people around her table. Life on Lake LBJ suited her well, and she and Jim found great joy in entertaining, hosting family gatherings, and building lasting memories with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In her later years, Donna continued to enjoy an active social life and remained deeply connected to her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her immense pride and happiness.
Donna was preceded in death by her husband of many years, Dr. James (Jim) Buford Davis Jr.; her parents, Robert and Mary Sims; and her siblings Roy, Billy, James, Martha, and Douglas.
She is survived by her sisters Mary Ann Williams and Shirley Schmidt and her husband Dave Schmidt; her five children, Lynn, Louise, LaMoyne, Terry, and Dustin; twelve grandchildren-Josh, Janae, Ryan, Winston, Leah, Brandie, Dalton, Breann, Calvin, Sammie, Travis, and Sadie; and twelve great-grandchildren-Kate, Luke, Clara, Jack, Holland, Cooper, Maddie, Taylen, Lennon, Austin, Dylan, and Laney.
Donna was a strong woman, a devoted wife, a loving mother and a faithful servant to her community. Her life was one of purpose, leadership, and love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and leaves behind a legacy that will continue through generations.
Funeral Services Provided By
Harrell Funeral Home of Austin
4435 Frontier Trail (at South Lamar and Ben White), Austin, TX 78745
This obituary was published by Harrell Funeral Home of Austin.
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