Former Claiborne County Sheriff Frank Davis dies

Last updated: August 24, 2026

PORT GIBSON, Miss. (VDN) —

Former Claiborne County Sheriff Frank Davis has died.

Davis dedicated decades of his life to public service in Claiborne County and across Mississippi.

After graduating from high school, Davis served two years in the United States Army. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Alcorn State University in 1971 before continuing his studies in criminal justice at the University of Southern Mississippi. He later pursued additional studies in business education at Alcorn State.

Davis served as a first sergeant with the 114th Military Police Company and later as a deputy sheriff under former Claiborne County Sheriff Dan McCaa. His career also included serving as assistant chief of police for the city of Port Gibson, director of Claiborne County Civil Defense and in leadership positions within the Claiborne County Public School District.

Davis was elected Claiborne County sheriff in 1979, becoming Mississippi’s first elected Black sheriff in the modern era following Reconstruction.

His impact extended beyond Claiborne County. Davis served as president of the Mississippi Sheriffs’ Association from 2000 to 2001, becoming the first African American to hold the position.

Davis was also a founding father of the Mississippi chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and served as its president in 1990.

Current Claiborne County Sheriff Edward L. Goods Sr. reflected on Davis’ historic career and the foundation he established for future law enforcement leaders.

“These were not simply titles or accolades,” Goods said. “They represented barriers broken, doors opened, and a lifetime committed to public service. Sheriff Davis demonstrated that a sheriff from Claiborne County could make an impact not only locally, but throughout the State of Mississippi and the law enforcement profession.”

Goods said those who serve as sheriff share a responsibility to protect citizens and leave the department and community better for those who follow.

“On behalf of myself, my family, and the entire Claiborne County Sheriff’s Department, I extend my deepest condolences to the Davis family,” Goods said. “We honor his many years of service, his historic accomplishments, and the contributions he made to Claiborne County and the State of Mississippi.”

Goods concluded his statement by honoring Davis’ legacy.

“Rest in peace, Sheriff Frank Davis,” Goods said. “Your service made history, your accomplishments opened doors, and your legacy will forever be a part of Claiborne County.”