Stanton Davis Jr. obit

Stanton Davis Jr. Obituary

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Stanton Davis Jr.

A life well lived finding the greatest joy in sharing his passion for music with the world.

Stanton Davis Jr. was born on November 10, 1945, to parents Doreatha J. Davis and Stanton Davis Sr. in New Orleans, Louisiana. Stanton peacefully transitioned to his eternal rest on April 18, 2026, at the age of 80.

At an early age Stanton knew what he wanted to do in life, be a jazz musician. He started playing the trumpet in 4th grade at McDonogh #6 Elementary School in New Orleans Louisiana. He excelled at playing the trumpet, it came easy for him, he practiced every day, sometimes all day. In high school Stanton would sneak out to play in local clubs and bars, something his mother never knew. Sometimes the pay was only five dollars and other times he didn’t get paid at all. None of that mattered because Stanton was totally committed to honing his craft and reaching his goal.

Stanton studied at Berklee College of Music, received an undergraduate degree from New England Conservatory of Music, served as program director for the MIT radio station, and received a master’s in ethnomusicology from Wesleyan University. He initially played locally in and around the Boston area; his long career included performing with George Russell, the Duke Ellington Orchestra, Cab Calloway, Lional Hampton, Mario Bauza, Gil Evans, Lester Bowie’s Brass Fantasy, Charlie Haden, George Gruntz, Muhal Richard Abrams, Sam Rivers, Ray Anderson, Jaki Byard, Max Roach, James Moody, Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown Webster Lewis and Ray Abrams Big Band to name a few. In addition, he worked in several Broadway shows, Black and Blue, Sophisticated Ladies, Ain’t Misbehavin’, Jelly’s Last Jam, Bring in ’da Noise. Bring in ‘da Funk.

As an educator, Stanton taught at Southeast Massachusetts University, Wellesley College, Bennington College, New England Conservatory of Music, Third Street Music School Settlement, Rider University and Jazzmobile.

Those who will cherish his memory are his wife of 39 years, Sedia L. Davis, brother Emanuel T. Davis, son Erik A. Davis, niece Sierra T. St. Jean, niece Koty S. Davis, nephew Emanuel P. Davis, beloved caretaker Hermilyn Simon and numerous friends and loved ones.

Rest in peace, knowing you are deeply loved. You will be greatly missed and forever remembered.