LaVan Davis Death Notice: The House of Payne Mourning the Loss of the Actor Known as Curtis Payne Who Has Died Following a Battle with Cancer

 LaVan Davis, the American actor beloved for his role as Curtis Payne in the acclaimed sitcom Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, has died after a prolonged battle with cancer, according to a social media announcement made by his son. He was regarded as a prominent figure in modern Black television comedy.

“With great sorrow, we share the news of my father, LaVan Davis’s passing,” the announcement read. “He fought against cancer for many years and has now found peace with God.” The family expressed their appreciation to supporters and fans for their kind words, but no additional details concerning his death were released.

Davis became widely known for his portrayal of Curtis Payne, a strong yet deeply relatable father figure whose humor and emotional depth resonated with audiences for nearly two decades. The series, created by Tyler Perry, became an important cultural touchstone, especially within African American communities, thanks to its blend of humor, faith, and family-centered stories.

Fans and industry peers flooded social media with touching tributes, praising Davis for his comedic timing, authenticity, and ability to add emotional depth to sitcoms. “Curtis felt like someone you would genuinely know,” remarked an ardent fan. “That’s rare, and that’s LaVan.”

Davis frequently shared the screen with Cassi Davis, who played his television spouse, Ella Payne. Their chemistry significantly shaped the show and portrayed a nuanced representation of a lasting marriage that was seldom seen in media.

While Davis kept much of his personal life private, his impact on the entertainment industry was profound. Besides his acting, his involvement was instrumental in the commercial success of Tyler Perry’s television ventures, which have reshaped opportunities for Black actors in mainstream media.