Lloyd Clayton Davis, 93
Lloyd Clayton Davis, 93, of Eugene, Ore., passed away May 30, 2024, of age-related causes.
Lloyd was born to Clayton and Gertrude (Smith) Davis on Nov. 2, 1930, in Ekalaka, Mont. Although we all had doubts, Lloyd insisted that Ekalaka was the center of the universe.
Lloyd’s mother passed when he was six years old. He lived with various relatives until age 13, when he struck out on his own. In Montana, he worked on cattle ranches and traveled the rodeo circuit competing as a saddle bronc rider. At the age of 20, Lloyd enlisted in the Air Force, serving during the Korean War conflict. After his honorable discharge, Lloyd made his way to Kellogg, Idaho, and began working as a hard-rock miner in the Idaho silver mines. It was during this time that Lloyd met his future wife of 45 years, Marlene Noecker.
After fracturing his ankle in a mine cave-in, Lloyd decided mining was not the career for him. Lloyd took his young family and went to visit friends in Eugene, Ore. The year was 1963. Lloyd’s colorful career in law enforcement was about to begin. He said being a police officer would be a lot safer than working in the mines.
Lloyd began working for the City of Eugene Police Department as a patrol officer. Lloyd was much more interested in arresting felons than issuing traffic citations which often put him at odds with his supervisors. As a detective, Lloyd investigated homicides and arsons and was involved in solving several high-profile crimes in Lane County. He was known for his creative interrogation styles as well as his unorthodox investigative techniques, which included bringing suspects to his home for dinner. (His wife, Marlene, was a very patient woman.)
Lloyd was a dedicated family man with a wide variety of hobbies. He enjoyed hunting, playing horseshoes and attending many types of sports competitions. He was also happy that other people enjoyed repairing cars and working in the yard.
Lloyd had friends from all walks of life. If you were fortunate enough to be a part of Lloyd’s extensive social group, more than likely, you had a nickname and “a coin for luck.”
Lloyd was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene, and his sisters, Sammy and Joyce. He is survived by his daughter, Cheryl (Cindy), son Ken, three grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, sister Carlene, brother Ted and numerous cousins.
At Lloyd’s request, there will be no memorial service. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Eugene, Ore.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to all of Lloyd’s friends and neighbors for the laughter and kindness they shared with him throughout the years. Dad was insistent that you know how much he appreciated and cared for all of you. He was truly blessed to have you in his life.
Davis