In Memory - Jeffrey Bennett Davis

March 29, 1943 - March 22, 2010

DAVIS, JEFFREY BENNETT March 29, 1943 to March 22, 2010 Jeffrey B. Davis, a man devoted to family and legions of friends, died unexpectedly at home in La Jolla, CA on Monday, March 22. He was 66. Born in San Diego on March 29, 1943, Jeff was the only child of Jack Davis, a teacher from Kansas, and the former Geraldine Thompson from Iowa. Jack Davis died of the first case of post-war polio in San Diego in 1946, leaving his little son to be raised to adulthood by his dedicated mother, Jere Davis, and his maternal grandparents. A natural leader, Jeff was a top cadet at Army Navy Academy in Carlsbad (Class of '61) and studied business at the University of the Pacific, from which he graduated (Class of '65). On his return to San Diego after college, Jeff married his childhood sweetheart, the former Katherine "Kay" Ingraham on July 9, 1966, and together they had three daughters, Heather, Shawn and Wendy, who were the light of his life. Jeff's first business venture after college was with Expo Stucco, the firm belonging to his grandfather, Paul Gurrad. Within a short time, Jeff took over as President and CEO, eventually building a company with many times the assets and distribution of the original. Jeff ultimately sold Expo Stucco and assumed the presidency of American Assets, and later of Torrey Enterprises. He subsequently formed his own development company with multiple community-enhancing projects over many years. Jeff was a founding and active member of the San Diego Chapter of Young Presidents' Organization (YPO). Outside of YPO, he organized trips and adventures of all kinds for his friends, as well as attentive help for anyone in need. Jeff was an excellent athlete; he skied, played racquetball and tennis, and was an avid golfer and member of La Jolla Country Club where he played several days a week in recent years. Beyond all else, Jeff loved his family and friends. He is survived by Kay, his wife of 43 years, and daughters Shawn Rodger (Trevor) of La Jolla and Wendy McDonald (Chad) of Encinitas, as well as six grandchildren who will miss their Poppy: Grace and Cooper Palamountain, Brooks and Reese Rodger, and Lincoln and Chaning McDonald. Jeff's oldest daughter, Heather Palamount-ain, predeceased him last year. Private family services are planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Duckor, Spradling, Metzger & Wynne Trust Account: FBO The Davis Family Grandchildren Education Trust, 3043 4th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103.