Wade Davis

Wade Leon Davis (Leon), 85, of Lancaster, South Carolina, died peacefully Monday, Dec. 19, 2022, at his home, surrounded by loved ones. Leon was born April 15, 1937, in Lexington, to the late Wade H. Davis and Patti Lee (Moore-Biggers) Davis. He grew up in Mount Airy with his younger brother, Reginald Davis. Charlotte was Leon's home for many years. Recently, he and Ann moved to Lancaster. During Leon's senior year at Mount Airy High School, he received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy (Annapolis, Maryland) from then NC Senator Kerr Scott. In 1959, Leon graduated from the USNA with a BS, was commissioned as an Ensign, and received his first assignment to the heavy cruiser, the USS Toledo (CA-133). In 1959, the USS Toledo was part of the Navy's "People to People" tour of the West Pacific and stopped in various ports in before being decommissioned in 1960. During this time, Admiral Alfred "Corky" Ward selected Leon as an aide in preparing numerous social engagements for high-ranking officers and dignitaries. Next, Leon served on the heavy cruiser, the USS Rochester (CA-124), again serving under Admiral Ward throughout the West Pacific, until 1961. Leon attained the rank of Lieutenant and last served on the USS Henderson (DD-785), in the West Pacific arena, until being honorably discharged in 1964. Leon attended Wake Forest Law School and graduated in 1967 with a J.D. (Juris Doctor). He worked in the First Union National Bank Trust Department in 1968 and began their first Pension & Profit-Sharing Business Development effort. In 1971, he left the bank and began Tax Concepts, Inc. to provide financial planning solutions for his clients. Additionally, Leon became a partner in real estate development, overseeing projects in various states. He was an accomplished life insurance agent with National Western Life Insurance until he began practicing law in Charlotte. He organized a group of attorneys, CPAs and accountants providing a variety of legal and financial services. Leon's spiritual roots began in the First Presbyterian Church of Mount Airy. He volunteered in the church throughout his life, teaching, mentoring, and serving. His compassionate, servant heart enabled him to minister to countless individuals and couples, and he was a spiritual mentor to many. He was part of a men's group for over 20 years, forming lasting bonds of friendship. His laugh was infectious, he had a genuine love of people, a tender heart, and didn't take himself too seriously. He enjoyed playing golf, loved beach trips, and could fix absolutely anything. Most of all he was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Leon is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ann Christian Davis, his three sons and daughter-in-laws, Reid and Rhonda Davis, Scott and Michelle Davis, Bryson and Amy Davis, and his daughter and son-in-law, Rachel (Davis) and Brady Teague, 12 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His celebration of life will be held at Weddington Methodist Church on Saturday, Dec. 31, at 11 a.m., followed by a reception at the church. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the MPN Research Foundation (www.mpnresearchfoundation.org) or a charity of your choosing.