Carol Davis, the matriarch of the Raiders and mother of team owner Mark Davis, passed away Friday at the age of 93. Known as the “First Lady of Raider Nation,” Carol was a constant presence in the organization for decades. In tribute, Mark Davis lit the Al Davis Memorial Torch at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Carol and her husband, Al Davis, the legendary former owner of the Raiders, were married in 1954 and remained together until Al’s death in 2011. Carol made history by lighting the Memorial Torch at Allegiant Stadium’s first game in 2020, honoring her late husband’s legacy. She continued as co-owner of the franchise until her passing.
The Raiders released a statement remembering Carol Davis for her strength, resilience, and compassion. “Her strength and resilience, although not seen by the masses, were always on display to those who were fortunate to be in her presence. She was a strong woman who exuded a compassionate and loving side. If Al was the heart of the Raiders, Carol was the soul.”
Carol, affectionately called “Carolee” by Al, was a steadfast supporter of the Raiders during their 1967 AFL championship and three Super Bowl victories. She played a significant role in team history, including presenting former coach Tom Flores for his Hall of Fame induction in 2021.
In 1979, Carol overcame significant health challenges after suffering a heart attack and stroke that left her in a coma for more than three weeks. Al Davis put football aside to be by her side throughout her recovery.
A private service for Carol Davis will be held in Oakland, with a public celebration of life planned for a later date. She resided in the Bay Area at the time of her passing.