Richard Davis Obituary, Death Cause – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard R. Davis, who departed from us on August 7, 2023, in New York. Richard was born in Houston, Texas, in 1936, to his loving parents, William Ralph Davis and Virginia Lee Allison. His family’s enduring farm in Johnson County, dating back to 1845, remains a testament to their enduring legacy. Richard’s educational journey took him from Texas to Alexandria, Virginia, where he attended the Episcopal High School. His spirit of adventure led him to enlist in the Army in 1956, where he served as an instructor, imparting his knowledge in NATO and U.S. troops on Nike Fire Control Systems for anti-aircraft missiles at Fort Bliss.
With determination and a thirst for knowledge, Richard joined the class of 1962 at Yale University, graduating as one of its distinguished alumni. Uncertain about whether to pursue business or law, he embarked on a unique path, concurrently enrolling in both Yale Law School and Columbia Graduate School of Business. Remarkably, he graduated from both institutions in 1965. Moving to New York, Richard’s professional journey led him to the law firm of Chadbourne & Parke, where he would eventually become a partner in 1974. In 1983, he took on the role of General Counsel at Inspiration Resources Corporation, taking him on journeys to mines and plants throughout North America. For the final 15 years of his illustrious career, until his retirement in 2006, he served as General Counsel of Bessemer Securities Corporation and Bessemer Trust. Richard’s commitment to making a positive impact extended beyond his career. He served on the Board of Meharry Medical College, a historically significant institution in the field of medical sciences, from 1993 to 2022. His dedication to education and the betterment of others was an integral part of his life’s journey.
Richard R. Davis will be remembered for his sense of adventure, his unwavering dignity towards others, and his profound love for his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Christina, and their daughter, Virginia Lee Allison Davis O’Keefe, along with son-in-law Edward F. O’Keefe, and two cherished grandchildren, Elsa Cecelia O’Keefe and Alton Davis O’Keefe. A private burial service will be held at Mount Comfort Cemetery in Alexandria, Virginia, where Richard’s legacy will find its final resting place. In honor of Richard’s memory and his commitment to education, a fund has been established at the Yale Library, known as the Richard R. Davis Library Conservation Resource Fund. This fund will continue to contribute to the betterment of education, just as Richard did throughout his life.
