‘He loved Mercer.’ Georgia university’s provost dies suddenly, school officials say
A Mercer University academic administrator who worked at the college for more than 30 years died suddenly Sunday night, according to school officials.
Mercer Provost Scott Davis, 61, died from an apparent heart attack, Mercer President William D. Underwood said in a heartfelt email shared to university stakeholders Monday morning.
“I have terribly sad news to report. Our friend, our colleague, our Provost Dr. Scott Davis passed away last night of an apparent heart attack,” Underwood said in the email. “Scott was the finest provost with whom I have had the privilege to serve. In addition to a brilliant mind, Scott was determined to make Mercer the best it could be. He loved Mercer. When there were tough things that needed to be done, I could always count on Scott.”
Macon-Bibb Coroner Leon Jones said Davis was found dead Monday morning of natural causes. Jones said he believes Davis died Sunday.
Jones said he pronounced Davis’ death at 10:05 a.m.
Davis was appointed as Mercer University’s provost in January 2012, succeeding former Provost Wallace Daniel.
Under Davis’ tenure as the chief academic officer, the university has gained several accolades, including admission to the Georgia Research Alliance and distinguished research designations, according to Mercer’s website.
Davis began working at Mercer in 1991 as an assistant professor of chemistry. Over the years, he also served as associate professor, chairman of the chemistry department, associate dean of the College of Liberal Arts and associate executive vice president, according to The Telegraph archives.
In the email, Underwood also asked the university community to keep Davis’ family in their thoughts and prayers as they “deal with this devastating and unexpected loss.”
Jennifer Fairfield-Williams, director of media relations for Mercer, said the university does not have any further details as of publication.
Hart’s Mortuary and Cremation Center is in charge of funeral arrangements, Jones said.
This story was originally published February 10, 2025 at 1:49 PM.