Brian Jeffrey Davis

Brian Jeffrey Davis passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on September 20, 2019. He was 35.

He is survived by his mother, Gayle Davis; father, Sam Davis; brother, Eric (Laura) Davis; nieces, Katelyn (Grant) Gingrich, Juniper Davis; and nephew, Zephyr Davis. He is also survived by his grandmother, Lucille Arndt, many aunts, uncles and cousins whom he loved. Brian’s death is felt by a diverse circle of friends, some of whom were like brothers and sisters.

Brian graduated from Lansing Sexton High School in 2002. He was a National Merit Scholar. Brian played golf and baseball while at Sexton, and continued his love of sports into adulthood. He attended Iowa State University on an academic scholarship and graduated in 2006.

In recent years, Brian enjoyed working as a financial analyst for Byline Bank in Schaumburg, Illinois.

Brian, known to many as “B” or “B-Fez,” had a knack for making everyone in his life feel cared for and relevant. He loved a spirited debate on any subject and relished a challenge. He could outwit the best argument, though rarely showed his cards until the most devastating moment.

Brian had an insatiable appetite for reading — accumulating boxes upon boxes of non-fiction books throughout his life. He was well-read on politics, world religions, science and astronomy, and current events. While attending Iowa State, he studied abroad in India and Kenya.  Those trips proved to be seminal experiences that had a profound impact on Brian’s worldview and humanity.

Brian would drop anything for those he loved — like driving hours in an ice storm to pick up a stranded friend. He lived life at the moment — jumping into a lake fully clothed, or taking a spontaneous road trip to the beach. He valued unique life experiences — looking forward to a come-what-may vacation in Thailand this fall.

Brian loved light beer poured over a tall glass of ice, and he didn’t care what you thought of that. He was a man of his own tastes, and was consistent and true to who he was for all of his days.

Though he never had kids of his own, there were many young children in his life between friends and family. He showered them with love and affection (and toys) and was the fun adult in their lives whom they were always excited to see.

Brian wasn’t a religious man, but he had a sense of awe and wonderment when considering the cosmos or the profundity of life and human existence. Brian had a wide, warm smile, an easy gait, and a unique bob when he nodded or shook his head.

These all are the mannerisms and traits emblazoned in our hearts and minds as we carry his memory.

A celebration of Brian will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2019, at the Kellogg Center on Michigan State University’s campus. Visitation from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and a reflection on Brian’s life to follow from 3 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Brian’s name to either the Ronald McDonald House of Ann Arbor or the Union of Concerned Scientists. We think these charities honor the humanity and spirit of our beloved “B”. Online condolences may be left for his family at www.EstesLeadley.com

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41 Messages to “Brian Jeffrey Davis

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Katie Ferguson
September 27, 2019 at 2:30 pm

My sincerest condolences to the Davis family in your time of sorrow. Brian was a beautiful soul and may he rest in peace.

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Giovanni DeLisi
September 27, 2019 at 5:43 pm

My sincere condolences to the Davis Family. I worked with Brian at Byline Bank. We were in credit committee together and when I would see a write up done by Brian I knew it would be a good one. We would also park on the same upper level of the parking garage where hardly anyone parks. We would often be one space apart or across from each other. Almost every morning we would greet each other, and sometimes in the evening leaving as well. I will miss our “Morning Brian” “Morning Gio”; “Goodnight Brian”, “Goodnight Gio” exchanges.

He was a sweet genuine person and I will miss him.

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Irizarry Family
September 27, 2019 at 6:59 pm

Our deepest condolences to the Davis family upon the passing of Brian . We were blessed to meet Brian through Steven. Brian was not only our friend but a part of our family. He was always so kind hearted to us and also our children. Brian will be truly missed. We pray that god guides you all through this difficult time. May he Rest In Peace

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Ana Ramirez
September 27, 2019 at 7:30 pm

Brian’s passing leaves a hole that will never be filled, because he was such a rare find. So caring, giving of himself and his time, funny, interesting and always there to listen. I felt like Brian was a person who knew everything, then the day came that I hit him with one of our “fun facts.” He did not know that every doctor, at some point in their schooling, has been trained to deliver a baby. I thought I was so cool teaching the person that knew everything something! He was genuinely interested and glad that I told him something new. B Feez will be sorely missed. We will always cherish his random pop-ups at our house. He was more excited to see the kids than us! His presence and huge heart will never be forgotten. Heaven got lucky with the addition of such a beautiful human.

Here’s to growing older, for it is a priviledge denied to many.

All my love, all the time.

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Lee Miller
September 27, 2019 at 7:36 pm

Brian’s passing has been heavy on my mind for the past week. I was surprised and upset when I heard this sad news! I have many great memories of traveling together for baseball training and games, partying together, and even pushing his car once or twice when it ran out of gas. Whenever I hear a Bob Marley song I’ll be thinking of him. My thoughts are with your family during this challenging time.

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pdc
September 27, 2019 at 7:39 pm

My heart breaks over the untimely death of such a strong, yet gentle soul. Brian was intelligent, kind, we’ll mannered, and a unique gift to the earth. If you were blessed to have known Brian then you will never forget him. Not only was he the best and the most preferred credit analyst, he was one of the best and most preferred human beings.

I will forever cherish Brian’s memory and will continue to pray for strength and peace for his loving family. I hope you find solace knowing that Brian always knew he was loved.

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Michael J. Knazur
September 27, 2019 at 8:22 pm

My condolences to the family of Brian Jeffrey Davis. I had the pleasure of working with Brian at Byline Bank. Brian was a top performer at the Bank and had an outstanding craft in his analysis of complex business transactions. Even more – Brian was truly engaged and dedicated to the team and driven to excel in his career. What I will remember most about Brian is how he carried himself – class act, professional, humble and kind. I will miss working with Brian and seeing him around the office. Brian – rest in peace.

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Ronda Thompson
September 28, 2019 at 2:12 pm

I worked with Brian for several years. He was a king, generous and intelligent young man and despite our age difference we became fast friends. He spoke often about his family and especially his nieces and nephew. I will cherish the time we spent together. He was one in a million. My deepest sympathies to Brian’s family.

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Gene and Sandy Wriggelsworth
September 28, 2019 at 2:23 pm

Gene and I are so saddened by the loss of someone who was such a special person in the lives of so many and our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends who will miss him so much. May your memories of Brian help you through this difficult time.

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Anela Lightfoot
September 28, 2019 at 7:25 pm

I hadn’t seen or spoken to Brian since 2006 when I saw him at a gas station in Lansing in passing before I moved away. We smiled and joked about how he serenaded me “Always be my baby” by Mariah Carey senior year of high school because he told me I would never forget he was my first serenade- that I’d hear the song and think of him. I’m bereft to hear this news and I fervently hope that my sharing this memory helps his family to see another happy thought he gave to someone else.

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Roxann Ellis
September 29, 2019 at 8:31 am

I am so sorry for your loss. Brian was a kind and caring person. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

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Cindy Jepsen
September 29, 2019 at 11:43 am

To Sam, Gayle, Eric and all of the Davis family.
I am deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Brian. My son Keegan and Brian were classmates and baseball teammates.It has been a number of years since I have seen Brian, but I have many fond memories of class events and years of baseball games with the Davis family. I am truly sorry for your loss. I pray God will give you strength and comfort now and in the ensuing days ahead. I will be praying for your family.

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William F Bupp
September 29, 2019 at 1:35 pm

Condolences to the Davis family. We especially we wish to reach out to Sam. Losing a child is a sad and difficult ordeal for any family. May you forever hold Brian in your heart and cherish the goodness of his life. Time will lessen the tears, memories will replace the sadness and love will ease the pain. RIP Brian.

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Kay Walters (Hickman)
September 29, 2019 at 8:46 pm

I have fond memories of Brian when he was in my classroom. I am sorry for your loss.
May your memories of Brian and the love of your family and friends surround you and give you strength and peace in the days ahead.

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Bob Veitch
September 29, 2019 at 9:00 pm

Sam,

I am so sorry for your loss. I will be praying for you to have strength during this rough time. I know it is tough but celebrate the time and memories you had with him. I met your son years ago at Baseball and it sounds like you molded him with a Great Heart And Friendships.
If anything I can do my friend let me know.

Sorry again Sam,

Bob Veitch

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Leonard Hunter
September 29, 2019 at 9:27 pm

So sorry for your loss. Cherish the memories and your special relationship enjoyed with Brian.

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Matt Overweg
September 30, 2019 at 8:54 am

I’m so sorry to hear about your loss Sam. I pray your family will find peace and comfort during this difficult time.

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Jeff LeVeque
September 30, 2019 at 9:26 am

Sam, on behalf of the Livingston County Sheriff’s family please extend our deepest condolences to you and your family. We were shocked to hear about this especially after you presented for us at our retreat. Again very sorry for your loss.

Jeff LeVeque, LCSO

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Paul Weidner
September 30, 2019 at 10:20 am

Sam, Gayle, and Eric, We are so saddened to learn of Brian’s passing. Our hearts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. Our sincere sympathy to you and your family. Karen and Paul Weidner

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Jim Hunt
October 1, 2019 at 9:11 am

We are heartbroken over the loss of Brian. I will forever cherish the memories of the little boy I knew years ago and of the fine young man he became. Hold on to the great times and know our love extends to you all.

Jim and Anita Hunt

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Mary Purvis
October 1, 2019 at 12:47 pm

We are so very sorry for your loss. We have fond memories of Jake playing soccer with Brian. He was a great kid who grew into a great man. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Mary, David and Jacob Purvis

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Terry L. Boston
October 1, 2019 at 1:07 pm

My deepest and sincerest condolences to the Davis family. Although I didn’t work in the same department with Brian at Byline Bank, I would see him in passing down the hallway. He had a quiet and soft spoken demeanor and initially seemed somewhat shy but then he would always speak with a strong “what’s up” “how you doing” and of course would nod his head to acknowledge you. Brian was always a gentleman and further brief conversations with him revealed his keen sense of humor, confidence, and humble strength. I wish he had more time with us—sometimes great people are shared only for a moment but their greatness stays with us forever. I will truly miss those brief moments and will never forget him. Rest In Peace Brian.

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Pamela Keating
October 1, 2019 at 3:50 pm

Major Davis,
I don’t know if you remember me..I’m Pamela Keating that worked at the MSA office. I did not know your son, but knowing you for the short time I did, I want you to know how deeply sorry I am to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.

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Elias Diggins
October 1, 2019 at 9:49 pm

Sam,

The Board of Directors of the American Jail Association sends our condolences to you and your family. You have been an amazing Board Member, even in the midst of the sorrow of your loss. Although I did not have the pleasure to meet Brian, apples generally do not fall far from trees and he has an amazing man as a father. God bless you during this time and we are here if you need an ear or shoulder to lean on.

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Mike Garvey
October 1, 2019 at 10:13 pm

I am so sorry for this loss. I am praying very intentionally for the family.

Sam- I am no more than a call or text away if there is anything I can do.

Brian will stay in your hearts forever and I pray that peace can enter your hearts in the coming time.

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Gary Palmer
October 2, 2019 at 5:38 am

The legacy Brian has left on your family is unmatched by any words that can be written. My condolences to you and your family.

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Nancy Salisbury
October 2, 2019 at 4:46 pm

Sam,

I am so sorry for your loss. It sounds like he was an amazing young man. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Nancy

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Scott Warriner
October 2, 2019 at 9:22 pm

Dear Sam, Gayle, Eric and the entire Davis family. I am so very sorry for your loss of Brian. He was obviously a wonderful, caring, energetic, unique, and loving individual. I’m sure he brought out the best in each of you as well as many others. Please cherish all those special moments you had with him. You were all a very big part of him, and he will always be a big part of you for the remainder of your lives. His smile, voice, mannerisms, and deeds are forever etched in your minds and hearts. They will always remain there, which means Brian will always be with you. You are his legacy, as he is yours.

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Doug Peters
October 2, 2019 at 9:46 pm

So sorry for your loss.

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Rosanne Lee
October 3, 2019 at 7:27 am

Sam,I’m so sorry for your loss.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

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Dave Moored
October 3, 2019 at 9:24 am

My condolences to the Davis family. I had the privilege of working with Brian at both Capitol National Bank and Byline Bank. I knew Brian to be a very kind and caring person who enjoyed life. He impressed me with his work ethic and his dedication to his craft. The world will miss Brian.

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John Connell
October 3, 2019 at 10:41 am

Fathomless is the loss of a son. God give you strength to bear it and frequent recollections of how Brian’s life enriched you and others.

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Michele Florian
October 3, 2019 at 12:28 pm

Dear Sam,

I’m so sorry for your great loss. May God’s peace and comfort be with you and your family.

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The Lacy Family--Carolyn, Carol, Nathan, Cathy, Steve, and Connie
October 4, 2019 at 11:29 am

Dear Sam,

The Lacy family sends their love and prayers to all of you. Again, there are no words that would suffice, just prayers.

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Michael E. Ross
October 5, 2019 at 7:39 pm

Sam I am sorry for the loss of Brian. May you and your family find peace. God Bless you all.

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Joli Rish Shumpert
October 7, 2019 at 12:29 pm

Sam, I am so sorry for your loss. God bless your family during this time and may you be free from suffering. You and your family are in my prayers.

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Sarah Rykwalder
October 7, 2019 at 2:48 pm

I am so sorry. I worked with Brian at Byline Bank in the same department but different offices. We mainly communicated through email and he was quick with jokes and GIFs, and he absolutely brightened my day every time we communicated. He was always so kind and helpful. You raised a wonderful man who will be missed.

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Margaret Jones
October 7, 2019 at 6:54 pm

To the Davis family: My sincerest condolences to you during this difficult time.

I worked with Brian at Byline Bank, but was also fortunate enough to consider Brian a friend. It seemed like anyone who actually got to know Brian felt a special, personal connection with him almost right away. I only knew him for (unfortunately less than) two years, but it feels like I knew him longer, and other coworkers I’ve spoken to on the subject agree. That someone could leave that large of an impression in such a relatively short amount of time is a testament to his character.

We shared many conversations – long and short – while at work and outside of it. He had a wonderful sense of humor and could always get me to laugh. He also had this uncanny knack for telling when you were upset.

One time, I asked if I could have a cigarette. I’m not a smoker, but sometimes stress makes me think a cigarette is a good idea. Obviously, that’s never true, but Brian didn’t judge and didn’t ask questions. We had a lovely smoke break, and I thought I felt much better. Well, I was sick as a dog not long after. Brian kindly noted that you’re not supposed to swallow the smoke. Oops.

Brian and I were back-ups at work, which means I covered for him when he was on vacation, and vice versa. He always went out of his way to leave as little for me to do as possible while he was gone, but in the cases where I did end up having to do something for him, he would buy me a breakfast burrito when he got back. I often tried to tell him that he didn’t need to always leave me with nothing to do on his requests. I certainly didn’t always extend him the same courtesy.

There’s so much more I could say, but I don’t want to overload this comment box. I want you to know that Brian was a wonderful person (as you know) and that he will be missed dearly, by me and by everyone in the office. Best wishes.

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Tina (Greenwood)
October 8, 2019 at 9:33 pm

My sincerest condolences to the entire Davis family during your most difficult time. Although we haven’t crossed paths since Dwight Rich, Brian was always a very kind soul, and someone I have never forgotten. Mr. Davis, I am praying for strength for you and your family. May God look over you.

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Stevema
November 29, 2019 at 11:50 am

B Fees! I was socially awkward/ introvert in college, Brian always made sure to get me out and about and welcomed me to many circles of friends. Lost touch with him since and sad to hear but Brian will always be remembered as a great friend and person!

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Katya 5153578272
October 8, 2021 at 3:28 am

I tried to find him. I kept trying… but today I found this when I tried. i Google searched and facebooked him for 5 years. I Don’t understand. Can someone pls contact me? it’s my birthday Monday and I came to Michigan to try and find him in person so im here and would want to visit him pls

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