02/23/2026
Today we’re proud to highlight the life of William Emory “Bunny” Davis (1917–2001), a Boyle County native whose story is woven into the history of our community. Born in Perryville, Bunny was the son of a horse trainer and a mother from the Sleet family, and he later married Lillian Beasley (1920–2010), building a life and legacy rooted in this region.
As a young man he built a remarkable reputation through athletics at Bate High School and later in semi‑professional and integrated baseball, including playing for the Lexington Hustlers starting in 1947—opening doors and building relationships across Kentucky at a time when opportunities for Black athletes were limited. His courage on the field was matched by his leadership off it, as he went on to serve his community in public roles and as a trusted voice for equity, dignity, and inclusion.
Bunny’s memories offer a window into local life, work, and community in an earlier era—reminding us how much Boyle County has grown while staying true to its people‑first character. You can listen to his oral history interview (in two parts) and hear his story in his own words here:
🎧 https://library.biblioboard.com/anthology-collection/cd6feea5-6f07-4255-98d7-91c495aebd7f/b84cc81a-6110-4f65-a4ee-7fe34bda7230
As we celebrate Black History Month and work to support Boyle County’s future, we’re grateful for community members like Bunny Davis whose life and legacy helped shape the place we call home.
Source:
https://kchr.ky.gov/Hall-of-Fame/Pages/William-E.-Bunny-Davis.aspx