Carol Davis Cause of Death: Raiders’ Beloved Matriarch Dies at 93

Carol Davis, the widow of legendary Raiders owner Al Davis and mother of current owner Mark Davis, has died at the age of 93. The team confirmed her passing on Friday, marking the end of an era for one of the most iconic families in NFL history. The Raiders paid tribute to her during Sunday’s game at Allegiant Stadium, where Mark Davis lit the Al Davis Memorial Torch in her honor.

Known affectionately as “The First Lady of Raider Nation,” Carol Davis had been a central figure in the Raiders organization for over six decades. While the cause of death was not disclosed, her passing was met with heartfelt tributes from across the football community.

Carol Davis’ Legacy and Lifelong Connection to the Raiders

Carol Sagal married Al Davis in 1954, nearly a decade before her husband joined the Raiders as head coach in 1963. She became part of the fabric of the franchise as the team evolved from a small AFL club to one of the most dominant names in professional football.

Under Al Davis’ leadership, the Raiders captured three Super Bowl titles — in 1976, 1980, and 1983 — establishing a legacy built on bold decisions, fierce independence, and the famous motto, “Commitment to Excellence.” Throughout that journey, Carol was ever-present, offering guidance, support, and quiet influence behind the scenes.

In an official team statement, the Raiders said, “Carol provided unbridled support and unparalleled guidance to the Davis family and the Raiders organization for over 60 years. Her direct impact on the greatness of the Raiders continues to be felt, cherished, and honored.”

A Life of Strength and Resilience

Carol Davis’ life was marked by resilience. In 1979, she survived both a heart attack and a stroke that left her in a coma for more than three weeks. During that difficult time, Al Davis stayed by her side in the hospital until she made a full recovery — a testament to the couple’s enduring bond.

Her strength carried through decades of change for the franchise, including the Raiders’ relocations from Oakland to Los Angeles, back to Oakland, and finally to Las Vegas. When Allegiant Stadium broke ground in 2017, Carol was there. She later lit the Al Davis Memorial Torch for the team’s inaugural Las Vegas home game in 2020, which was played without fans due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There’s nobody that could have lit it other than her,” Mark Davis told ESPN at the time. “To have my mom light that torch means so much, and I think it will mean a lot for everybody in this valley.”

In 2021, she also presented former Raiders coach Tom Flores for his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing her connection to the sport’s greats.

Remembering the Soul of Raider Nation

Carol Davis’ passing represents not only the loss of a beloved family matriarch but also a bridge to the Raiders’ rich and rebellious past. To many, she embodied the spirit of the organization — loyal, passionate, and deeply committed to excellence.

As the Raiders continue under Mark Davis’ leadership, Carol’s influence remains woven into the team’s identity. Her legacy as both the heart and soul of Raider Nation will endure in every game played under the lights of Allegiant Stadium.

Carol Davis cause of death has not been publicly shared by the Raiders organization, but her life and contributions continue to resonate throughout the NFL community.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was Carol Davis’ cause of death?

The Raiders did not disclose Carol Davis’ cause of death in their official announcement.

Q2: How old was Carol Davis when she died?

Carol Davis was 93 years old at the time of her passing.

Q3: Who is Carol Davis’ son?

Her son is Mark Davis, the current owner of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Q4: What are some of Carol Davis’ notable contributions to the Raiders?

She supported the team for over six decades, lit the Al Davis Memorial Torch in 2020, and presented Tom Flores at his Hall of Fame induction.

Q5: When did Carol Davis marry Al Davis?

Carol Davis married Al Davis in 1954, years before he joined the Raiders organization.