Laurence Lanier Davis

Laurence was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lorraine Davis; his son, Mark Hanson; and his sister, Diane Destiny. He is survived by his loving partner, Nancy Willeford; his daughter, Loralie Davis Moeller, and her children, Carlton Moeller and Annabel Moeller; and his daughter, Frances Hanson, with her children Chad Calpito, Tara Harmon, Bree Repik, and Brittany Jones. He is also survived by great-grandchildren, Aubree Jones, Derek Jr. Jones, and Ava Repik.

Known to friends and family as Larry, he was born and raised in San Diego and held a lifelong love for the city. He graduated from San Diego State University and went on to enjoy a distinguished 49-year career as a mechanical engineer. He worked for Control Data Corporation and traveled around the world installing computer systems back when computers filled an entire room. Larry retired at age 70, but his curiosity and drive never slowed so he started his own business repairing computers and helping out friends and neighbors.

Larry lived a life marked by passion and grace, with a deep affection for the ocean. He spent many afternoons in San Diego Bay on his sailboat “Tranquility”. He had a lifelong appreciation for fine automobiles and participated in car clubs dedicated to Aston Martin and Rolls-Royce. A man of elegance and charm, he was also an avid dancer and a member of a few dance clubs.

Always eager to connect with others, Larry loved reaching across the world through amateur radio, communicating with like-minded people and building friendships that spanned continents. He remained active and engaged well into his eighties and especially enjoyed gatherings with family and friends. Known for his vibrant, colorful shirts, Larry’s personal style was as distinctive as his personality.

Above all, Larry prided himself on being a gentleman. He was deeply loyal to his family and consistently sought to do what was right for those he loved and for his community. His warmth, integrity, intellect, and zest for life will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of life will be held on January 16th at 3:00 p.m. at El Camino Memorial. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to I Love a Clean San Diego (ILACSD), in honor of Laurence’s love for the city and the many hours he spent enjoying the San Diego waters.

“He regarded himself as a gentleman.”

James Bond, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (novel, Ian Fleming, 1963)