Who was Rev. S.L. Davis?

Reverend Silas Leonard Davis

1888--1988

"A strong congregation is strictly a result of continuous gospel preaching and scriptural teaching."

In 1939 Reverend Davis was called to pastor Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, the members of which met in the home of Willie Marshall. In 1950 Reverend Davis supervised construction by his two sons of the church's current brick building at 2111 S.L. Davis Avenue.

Reverend Davis loved his church and its members. For 59 years, he served his congregation not only as pastor, but as friend and advocate. He also served as a resource for young ministers in the community.

He was known for walking the streets and talking to people who had alcohol or drug problems. He would invite them to his church for meals and a sermon. If they passed away and had no family, he would hold funeral services for them. He felt they needed to know someone cared.

Texas District Judge Ralph Yarborough would try misdemeanor cases in Reverend Davis's East 12th Street home, often designating the Reverend as an unofficial parole officer. "The Judge knew he could hold those people morally responsible for their conduct," said the Reverend's son Floyd Davis.

A grandson of former slaves, Reverend Davis was proud to be black. He lobbied the City Council for better city services for the black community and urged his parishioners to fight for civil rights. When the Texas Legislature declared Juneteenth a statewide holiday, Reverend Davis performed the invocation during the Capitol ceremony.

He was married to Willia C. Thompson for 74 years. To this union 11 children were born. "He taught us to care for our neighbor, help our community, and stay with a job until it is done," said his daughter Scottie Ivory.

Toward the end of his life, he weakened physically but remained very sharp mentally. In his 90's he could still recognize any bible scripture, naming its book, chapter, and verse.

"Forever, O Lord, Thy Word is settled in Heaven." Psalm 119:89

(The above text is from a memorial in the Chestnut neighborhood pocket park. If you'd like to visit, check out a map of Chestnut pocket park.)