Richard Edwin Davidson

Richard “Dick” Davidson, 73, passed away on May 11, 2024, joining his wife in her eternal home.  He shared his final moments with his daughter at his side after a noble battle with cancer. 

 Dick was born on July 27, 1950, in Norwich, NY to Cora and Donald Davidson.  Some of his fondest memories were with his family and friends throughout his childhood in Norwich.  While in school, Dick became involved with 4H where he found his love of horses. He carried this love throughout his life and shared it with his family.  He graduated from Norwich High School in 1968 and furthered his education at Hartwick College, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1972.  During his time at Hartwick, he began raising Irish Setters. 

 Throughout his 20’s, he spent time exploring various career paths, which allowed him to explore the country.  Some of these experiences included working for the Red Cross alongside his mother and volunteering for Slaterville Fire Department as an AEMT3.    

 He went on to attend Western New England College, School of Law from 1983-1986, graduating with his Juris Doctor.  He obtained various positions in law, including working for the Office of Children and Family Services for the past 25 years.  

  Dick met the love of his life after moving to Oxford, NY following law school.  He married Leigh Parkhill Davidson in August of 1992.  In the early years of their relationship, they raised horses and various types of pheasants.  They welcomed their daughter Kelsey Ayn Davidson in March of 1994. 

 Dick worked diligently to provide endless opportunities for both his daughter and wife.  As a family, they enjoyed various horse-related activities altogether including horseback riding, trips to the Saratoga Racetrack, and watching polo matches.  Dick shared his love of animals with his daughter throughout her childhood.  In Leigh’s later years, Dick became her dedicated and loving caretaker during her battle with Multiple Systems Atrophy.  

 Dick could be described as a hard worker with an eye for detail.  He retired shortly after his 73^rd birthday, just before his health declined.  In his own words, “If this is retirement, I want to go back to work.”  He is now enjoying heavenly retirement reunited with his wife. 

Dick is survived by his daughter Kelsey, his sister Sharon Davidson Dettenrieder, his brother Donald A. Davidson, and several nieces and nephews.  

Calling hours will be held at the Behe Funeral Home in Oxford, NY on Friday May 17, 2024 from 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM.  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 1:00 PM.  At St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 34 Main Street, Oxford, NY with the Very Reverend Geoffrey D. Doolittle, and the Very Reverend John L. Scott III officiating.  Friends and family may share their condolences and memories by visiting www.behefuneralhome.com.  In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Mercy House of the Southern Tier (http://www.mercyhousesoutherntier.com), or a local emergency squad of your choice.