Leon "Bubba" Davis

Leon Davis, affectionately known by friends and family as “Bubba” was born on March 11, 1937, in Bryan, Texas.  Bubba was the first of two children born to Nathaniel and Cornelius Gandy Davis.  His siblings, Maryann and half siblings Donald and Betty soon followed. Bubba graduated from Kemp High School in 1955 where his friends often called him “de Carlos”.  He immediately entered the Military where he was an active member of the Army and served as a Machine Gun Handler, Specialist Four from 1955-1958 in Hawaii, Schofield Barracks. He continued serving his country as an active member of the Army Reserves until his Honorable Discharge in 1962.

Introduced by Barbara Taylor of Cooley’s Funeral Home, Leon met his wife, Claudia.  Bubba and Claudie married on October 2, 1962. They lived in Fresno for a short time after giving birth to their first child, Ena, then moved to Oakland in 1964.  Their second child Mante was born in Oakland, and they continued to grow their family and had three more children, Denece, Michael and Michele.  Bubba and Claudie were married for 58 years.

For 34 years Leon was the Business Manager of the Hod Carriers Local 166 Teamsters Union in Oakland.  Leon was the third Black Business Manager for local 166.  He is the most successful manager to date in the entire union.  Leon is held as a highly respected and well-regarded business manager in the union. During his tenure he managed to create and set-up saving and pension plans for the members of local 166.  He retired in 1998 and it is because of Leon current members have generous pension and healthcare plans.

Outside of work, Bubba was a gentle giant.  He had a tough exterior but a soft heart.  Bubba will be remembered as someone who spoke his mind and gave advice but only when warranted or asked.  He would try to help any and every one and secured many people jobs in the union.

Bubba leaves behind five children, ten grandchildren, ten great children, two sons-in-law, and one granddaughter-in-law. He also leaves behind his Siblings, In-Laws, Nieces, Nephews, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Friends and a host of Business Associates, and Loved ones.

Leon is preceded in death, and as he joins his wife Claudia, his mom, dad and brother in heaven, we say this to you….

We love you. Thank you for always being YOU.  You tried to keep all of us honest. You have an unwavering personality, spirit and soul and you will be greatly missed. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Leon "Bubba" Davis, please visit our floral store.