MIDLOTHIAN, Va. β The legacy of the beloved RVA Santa lives on as his two grandsons are continuing the holiday tradition.
Paul Davis, a cherished Santa Claus in Central Virginia, including many years at Green Top in Ashland, died in November.
Officials with the sporting goods company postedΒ that they were "deeply saddened by the loss."
"He brought so much joy, not only to the kids who lit up at the sight of him, but to our entire Green Top staff as well," officials wrote after his passing. "We are incredibly grateful to have known him, and our hearts are with his family, friends, and the entire community during this time."
Davis' passing came just three weeks after announcing his retirement due to health issues. But his family ensured the tradition would continue.
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RVA Santa, holiday mainstay at Green Top, has died
His loved ones hosted a holiday event on Saturday at their dog grooming salon, where Davis' grandsons stepped into the roles of Santa and the Grinch, officially passing the torch to the next generation.
"He taught me everything to know about Santa, the kids, what to do and what not to do," Jonathan Davis said. "I did my first event in Arlington for the Army and Navy Country Club and I absolutely fell in love... It's just an honor to continue his legacy and I know I'm making him proud."
Jeremy Davis, who portrays the Grinch, said one person told him "they couldn't even tell a difference" between his grandfather's and brother's portrayal of Santa.
"The RVA Santa is still alive and the legacy continues... I know he's watching right now, just smiling down on both me and my brother to make the legacy continue in everyone's heart," Jeremy Davis. "Please come and see him β and that's coming from Grinch, actually," Jeremy Davis said
Jeremy Davis said they plan to make the photos at the dog grooming shop an annual Christmas tradition.
"That way we can have dogs, have kids, have everyone come in and get their dogs groomed and then get a picture with the RVA Santa," he said.
The pair is also launching a business called RVA Davis Cosplay, where they plan to combine RVA Santa with events where they dress up as famous heroes and movie characters to spread cheer all year round.
The grandsons are expanding beyond the traditional holiday season, creating opportunities to bring joy to the community throughout the year while honoring their grandfather's memory.
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