Richard Edward Davis

Richard married his wife of 54 years, Rita Davis, on December 29, 1970. Born in Akron, Ohio, on February 28, 1937, Richard graduated from Akron Central High, where he excelled in academics and athletics. He was senior class president, captain of the varsity basketball team, and valedictorian. He earned a Bachelor of Science and Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Akron University and was a member of Pi Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

Richard started his professional career as a software engineer with Martin Marietta, developing software that was a precursor to modern cell phone technology. He distinguished himself by becoming the youngest section chief at the time, before starting his own tech company. Richard’s career path eventually evolved into real estate, when Central Florida was in the early stages of its growth. He and his wife, Rita, started their own real estate company, near downtown Orlando, which they operated together successfully for decades.

Richard had a passion for boating, watching the Miami Dolphins (especially in the Dan Marino era), and attending Orlando Magic basketball games. He cherished his family’s annual vacation to Captiva Island, where fishing Redfish Pass and dining at the Bubble Room were regular occurrences. In his younger years, he played in men’s basketball leagues and even rode a motorcycle. Above all, he adored his grandchildren and loved attending their sporting events.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Dora Davis. He is survived by his spouse, Rita Davis, his sons, Richard Davis, Jr., and Ryan Davis, his daughter, Heather Davis, his brother, Edward Davis, his five grandchildren, Mary (Cate) Davis, Margaret (Maggie) Davis, Landon Davis, Adalyn Davis, and Cameron Davis, and his daughters-in-law, Jodie Davis and Amber Davis.

A celebration of life will be held on January 3, 2025, at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to hospice.