San Francisco Honors Trailblazing Journalist Belva Davis at Grace Cathedral
San Francisco recently honored trailblazing journalist Belva Davis at Grace Cathedral, celebrating her impactful life and legacy. Davis passed away on September 24, 2023, at the age of 92 after battling a long illness. This public remembrance event emphasized her contributions as the first Black female television reporter on the West Coast.
Remembering Belva Davis
Davis’s husband, Bill Moore, expressed deep affection in a heartfelt statement. Married for 62 years, Moore described their bond as magical since their first meeting. He highlighted their humble beginnings and how they built a fulfilling life together, traveling the world from the Bay Area to far-off destinations. Their commitment to raising a family focused on making a positive difference formed a core part of their shared values.
Early Life and Career
- Birthplace: Monroe, Louisiana
- Moved to: San Francisco Bay Area at age 8
- Education: Graduated from Berkeley High School in 1951
As college was financially unattainable, Davis worked as a typist on Treasure Island while writing for Black women’s organizations. This led to freelance reporting opportunities with notable publications like Jet magazine and the Sun-Reporter newspaper. Eventually, she secured a full-time position with the Bay Area Independent, where she honed her storytelling skills. Her groundbreaking television career began at KPIX, a CBS affiliate in San Francisco.
Career Achievements
Davis enjoyed a notable career, spanning 18 years at KRON, a former NBC affiliate, and two terms at public television station KQED, where she hosted the esteemed roundtable show “This Week in Northern California” until her retirement in 2012 at age 80.
Legacy and Recognition
Among her most memorable moments were interviews with renowned figures such as:
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
- Fidel Castro
- Frank Sinatra
- James Baldwin
- Muhammad Ali
Davis’s accolades included:
- Eight Emmy Awards
- Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Women’s Media Foundation
- Induction into the National Association of Black Journalists Hall of Fame
- Recognition in the Radio Hall of Fame
- Induction into the California Hall of Fame
- Honorary doctorates by four universities
Bill Whitaker, a reporter for “60 Minutes,” noted that today’s Black journalists continue to pave their paths inspired by Davis’s pioneering work. Her family, including a daughter, a son, their spouses, two grandchildren, and numerous relatives, survives her. Davis’s enduring spirit and dedication to her craft will be remembered for generations to come.
