This week in Northwest Louisiana history.
Willie D. Davis died April 15, 2020, age 85
Willie D. Davis died on April 15, 2020, at age 85. Born in Lisbon, Louisiana, Davis became known for his career in the National Football League. He played 12 seasons as a defensive end for the Cleveland Browns and Green Bay Packers. Davis won five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls. He earned All-Pro honors six times and entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981. Before his NFL career, Davis attended Grambling State University and served in the U.S. Army. After football, he worked in broadcasting and served on numerous corporate boards. He earned an MBA from the University of Chicago. Davis remained active in civic and business leadership. He also supported racial integration in professional sports. The Packers honored him after retirement and wore his name on their helmets in 2020. Lisbon, LA, marks his passing as part of its local history.
