Posted on Oct 26

Raiders' Carol Davis, 'First Lady of Raider Nation,' passes away at 93

Posted Oct 26, 2025

Carol Davis, the beloved matriarch of the Las Vegas Raiders and widow of legendary owner Al Davis, has passed away at the age of 93.

Why it matters: Carol Davis’ influence on the Raiders organization transcended her role as the wife of Al Davis; she was a cornerstone for the franchise's identity and continuity over several decades.

Serving alongside her husband since 1963, Carol played an essential behind-the-scenes role in the team's operations and emotional fabric.
Her legacy is interwoven with the Raiders' storied history, including three Super Bowl championships under Al's leadership during the 1976, 1980, and 1983 seasons.

What’s new: In honor of her passing, Mark Davis lit the Al Davis Memorial Torch at Allegiant Stadium, a symbolic gesture reflecting her deep connection to the team and its fans.

“There’s nobody that could have lit it other than her," Mark Davis stated, emphasizing the profound significance of the moment for him and the Raiders community.
Carol previously lit the torch herself before the Raiders’ inaugural game in Las Vegas in 2020, marking a pivotal transition for the franchise.

The big picture: Carol Davis exemplified resilience, having survived a heart attack and stroke in 1979 that left her in a coma for over three weeks.

This personal battle did not hinder her commitment to the Raiders; instead, it showcased her strength and determination, which became inspirational for both family and fans alike.

What to watch: As the Raiders move forward in their quest for a new chapter, the team's management will likely emphasize Carol’s contributions as they shape the organization's future.

The Raiders released a statement recognizing Carol as "the soul" of the franchise, indicating the high regard in which she was held and the potential impact of her absence going forward.

Between the lines: The outpouring of affection from fans and players alike highlights the cultural and emotional significance of the Davis family within Raider Nation.

Carol was not just a figurehead; she was instrumental in fostering the Raider mystique and camaraderie among its supporters.
Her involvement included attending groundbreaking ceremonies for Allegiant Stadium and presenting former coach Tom Flores during his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021.

The bottom line: The passing of Carol Davis marks the end of an era for the Raiders, yet her enduring spirit will continue to resonate within the organization and its community.

As the team navigates its next steps, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players and fans who cherish the rich history of the Raiders.

Raiders' Carol Davis, 'First Lady of Raider Nation,' passes away at 93

Alex Parker

Posted Oct 26, 2025

Carol Davis, the beloved matriarch of the Las Vegas Raiders and widow of legendary owner Al Davis, has passed away at the age of 93.

Serving alongside her husband since 1963, Carol played an essential behind-the-scenes role in the team's operations and emotional fabric.

Her legacy is interwoven with the Raiders' storied history, including three Super Bowl championships under Al's leadership during the 1976, 1980, and 1983 seasons.

What’s new: In honor of her passing, Mark Davis lit the Al Davis Memorial Torch at Allegiant Stadium, a symbolic gesture reflecting her deep connection to the team and its fans.

“There’s nobody that could have lit it other than her," Mark Davis stated, emphasizing the profound significance of the moment for him and the Raiders community.

Carol previously lit the torch herself before the Raiders’ inaugural game in Las Vegas in 2020, marking a pivotal transition for the franchise.

The big picture: Carol Davis exemplified resilience, having survived a heart attack and stroke in 1979 that left her in a coma for over three weeks.

This personal battle did not hinder her commitment to the Raiders; instead, it showcased her strength and determination, which became inspirational for both family and fans alike.

What to watch: As the Raiders move forward in their quest for a new chapter, the team's management will likely emphasize Carol’s contributions as they shape the organization's future.

The Raiders released a statement recognizing Carol as "the soul" of the franchise, indicating the high regard in which she was held and the potential impact of her absence going forward.

Between the lines: The outpouring of affection from fans and players alike highlights the cultural and emotional significance of the Davis family within Raider Nation.

Carol was not just a figurehead; she was instrumental in fostering the Raider mystique and camaraderie among its supporters.

Her involvement included attending groundbreaking ceremonies for Allegiant Stadium and presenting former coach Tom Flores during his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021.

The bottom line: The passing of Carol Davis marks the end of an era for the Raiders, yet her enduring spirit will continue to resonate within the organization and its community.

As the team navigates its next steps, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players and fans who cherish the rich history of the Raiders.