Bradford Merrill Davis

Bradford Merrill “Buff” Davis passed away suddenly August 5th at his home in Durham, NC. He was 68.
Buff grew up on Cape Cod (MA), sailing and “messing around with boats,” as his father was fond of saying. After attending Harwich High School, Phillips Exeter Academy (class of ‘70), and Dartmouth College (class of ’74), he returned to Cape Cod to work in the family business, Cape Cod Wind & Weather Indicators (started by his grandfather).
Buff’s helping heart was ever evident as shown in his time as a volunteer firefighter at Dartmouth, as a paramedic on Cape Cod, and in assisting his mother in her final 8 years in Durham. His gentle, caring manner with clients while he was a phlebotomist on Cape Cod made him a favorite among patients who needed blood drawn.
Buff had a quick wit and enjoyed hearing and telling stories. He would look for humor in everyday life, seeking to encourage those around him. He delighted in words, daily visiting Garrison Keillor’s Writers Almanac and Powerline Blog (especially The Week In Pictures). He loved languages, celebrating that he could say something in 20 languages, but French was his favorite, and he’d slip in French phrases whenever his audience might understand.
Buff credited C.S. Lewis’s Screwtape Letters with starting his journey to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Buff was an enduring friend and made new friends in any setting. He drew great joy from reading and music, especially James Taylor, and anything else with close harmonies.
He was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his daughter Sophie and his grandson Colt, as well as four siblings, dozens of cousins, and one delightful aunt.
The highlight of his last few months was a rescue dog, Daisy, whose life had a hard beginning. Buff would be quick to say that it wasn’t clear who rescued whom. She improved steadily under his loving care and that care continues as gracious neighbors have adopted her.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local dog shelter or another charity in Buff’s honor.
Buff was, and his family remains, ever grateful for the love and comfort from friends new and old, each a gift from God.