Leland Davis in a 2002 Columbian photo. (Columbian files)
Leland S. Davis, a former Vancouver police chief whose professional career wasn’t without its controversies, but who was described by loved ones as a kind man who took pride in protecting the community, died on Friday. He was 81.
“Lee didn’t die a rich man. He gave everything back to the community,” said Judith Davis, his wife of 47 years. “He died a public servant.”
Davis started his career in law enforcement with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office in 1956 and rose to the rank of lieutenant. He left in 1972 to become assistant sheriff in Santa Cruz County, Calif. He was considered a competent, devoted employee during his tenure, according to The Columbian’s archives.
Davis served as Vancouver’s police chief from 1979 to 1989. One week shy of his 55th birthday, he was bought out of his job by the city for $485,000 following controversy surrounding his verbal treatment of women and employees.
Leland Davis served in the military, was a devout Christian, a loyal Rotarian and involved in Republican politics.
When well-known politicians came to town, such as George W. Bush and Jimmy Carter, Davis was involved in the security of both men. Leland Davis also helped with local campaigns, including one for state Sen. Don Benton, and had a great sense of humor, Judith Davis said.
“A lot of people didn’t see that. … When you’re in law enforcement, you have to be tougher. But he had a good sense of humor,” she said. “He was also very intelligent. Before Googling, I would ask him things, and he could tell me anything about history.”
Brent Boger, an attorney with the city of Vancouver, said Davis was his dear friend and political confidant.
“I lost my father in my mid-30s, and Lee sort of became a substitute father for me,” Boger said, describing Davis as a calm presence, who he never heard raise his voice.
Davis died of cancer, his wife said, and he was a thoughtful man until his final breath.
“I was holding his hand when he took his last breath. He was so appreciative of what everyone did for him even though he was in pain and suffering,” she said.
Davis is survived by his wife, three children and six grandchildren.
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