Carol Davis, Raiders Part-Owner and Widow of Al Davis, Dies at 93

Carol Davis, the widow of former Las Vegas Raiders owner Al Davis and a longstanding part-owner of the team, has died at the age of 93. The Raiders confirmed her passing on Sunday, though the cause of death was not disclosed. Carol Davis, who had been integral to the franchise for over six decades, was celebrated for her pivotal role in both the team’s operations and its cultural identity. As the mother of current Raiders owner Mark Davis, Carol Davis’ influence on the team and the family business was profound and lasting.

Throughout her life, Carol Davis supported her husband’s vision for the Raiders and continued to be an active presence in the organization after his death in 2011. She is fondly remembered for her commitment to the Raiders’ legacy, with the team noting her unwavering support and guidance as key factors in its continued success. The Raiders’ statement emphasized that Carol Davis’ impact on the franchise is felt deeply, with her contributions now woven into the team’s rich history.

Carol’s legacy is especially significant given her involvement in the Raiders’ transition to Las Vegas. Her actions and support in the team’s relocation and efforts to create a new home for the franchise were instrumental in the Raiders’ current standing in the NFL. As the First Lady of Raider Nation, Carol Davis’ leadership and vision shaped the franchise’s direction for many years.

The news of her passing marks the end of an era for the Raiders, a team that has been synonymous with the Davis family for generations. Her death also highlights the vital role she played behind the scenes, ensuring the Raiders’ place in NFL history, both as a franchise and a cultural icon.

1. A Legacy with the Raiders Since 1963

Carol Davis’ involvement with the Raiders dates back to 1963 when her late husband, Al Davis, became the head coach of the team. Al Davis was a transformative figure in the NFL, not only as a coach but also as an executive who played a significant role in the Raiders’ rise to prominence. In 1966, Al Davis briefly served as the AFL commissioner before returning to the Raiders as a part-owner and eventually becoming the managing partner in 1972. Throughout Al’s tenure, Carol Davis stood by his side, supporting his bold decisions and vision for the franchise. Under Al’s leadership, the Raiders became one of the most successful teams in the NFL, winning three Super Bowl titles and becoming a dominant force in the 1970s and 1980s. Carol Davis’ influence during this period was largely behind the scenes, but it was essential in shaping the family-run nature of the Raiders organization. Following Al’s death in 2011, Carol Davis maintained her ownership stake in the team and helped guide the franchise through its transition. She became a symbol of continuity for the Raiders, holding the franchise together as her son, Mark, assumed control. While Mark Davis took over day-to-day operations, Carol’s ongoing involvement and leadership remained an anchor for the Raiders during a period of change. Her support for the team’s 2017 groundbreaking ceremony in Las Vegas following the NFL’s approval of the move from Oakland further solidified her lasting impact on the Raiders’ legacy. Carol’s participation in these significant milestones ensured the Davis family’s deep connection to the franchise remained strong even as it entered a new chapter in its history.

2. Symbolic Roles and Contributions to Raider Nation

Carol Davis’ contributions to the Raiders went beyond ownership. She was a cherished figure in the Raiders community, embodying the spirit and values of Raider Nation. In 2020, she had the honor of lighting the Al Davis torch during the Raiders’ inaugural game at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, a moment that symbolized the team’s transition to its new home and the ongoing influence of the Davis family. As the First Lady of Raider Nation, Carol Davis also played a central role in the Raiders’ recognition of important figures in the organization’s history. In 2021, she presented two-time Super Bowl champion coach Tom Flores at his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction, further cementing her status as a key figure in the Raiders’ family. Her participation in these events showcased her continued commitment to the team’s legacy, as well as her pride in the Raiders’ accomplishments. While she often remained in the background, Carol Davis’ influence within the organization was always present. Her leadership and guidance helped ensure that the Raiders remained true to the principles set forth by her late husband, while also supporting the team through transitions and challenges. As the mother of Mark Davis, she helped maintain the family’s vision for the team, even as ownership and management evolved. Carol’s contributions to the Raiders and her enduring role as a symbol of the franchise’s history will be remembered by fans, players, and staff alike, with her presence in the organization forever felt.

3. A Family Legacy and Raiders’ Future

Carol Davis’ death marks a significant moment in the ongoing story of the Raiders, a team synonymous with the Davis family’s name. As the mother of the current controlling owner, Mark Davis, Carol was an essential part of the franchise’s evolution over the years. While Mark has led the team since Al’s passing, Carol’s steadfast presence ensured the continuity and legacy of the Raiders, making her an integral figure in the team’s success. The Raiders are now in a period of continued growth and stability, particularly following the team’s relocation to Las Vegas. While Carol Davis may no longer be with us, her vision and dedication to the franchise’s success live on. The team’s progress in Las Vegas and its continued prominence in the NFL serve as a tribute to the hard work and leadership she provided throughout her life. Her passing leaves a gap in the Raiders’ leadership, but her legacy will continue to inspire the organization and its fans. The Davis family’s imprint on the Raiders is indelible, and Carol’s contributions will remain an essential part of the team’s story as it moves forward.