LINCOLN CITY — A memorial service at the Congregational Church on Nov. 15 offered a portal into Lincoln City’s recent past as mourners recall the life of former City Councilman Jim Davis.

Davis was recalled as a “perfect gentleman” for his respectful demeanor on the dais of the Lincoln City City Council, even as he fought for lost causes such as retaining prayer at council meetings. A member of the incoming city council of 2015, he defeated Ward 1 challenger Diane Hinton to join fellow newcomers Susan Wahlke, now mayor, and the late Kip Ward.

“With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we share that James M. Davis Jr passed away peacefully at home on October 13, 2025, after courageously battling cancer,” reported family members. “Jim was born on December 31, 1947, in Richmond, California. He grew up in San Jose, where he graduated from James Lick High School. A hardworking and dedicated craftsman, he owned and operated his own construction business for many years.”

Davis left California to settle in Lincoln City, Ore., in the 90’s, where he became part of the community by designing and constructing homes for over 25 years until his retirement in 2023. Hoping to fix some tough issues facing his adopted home, Davis was part of a reform movement that saw Don Williams elected mayor. It was a defining period for Lincoln City with vacation rental controversy, a shakeup in the visitors bureau, calls for election reform and a provocative plan to lay sewer pipes around the lake.

During his short tenure, Davis was an outspoken proponent of affordable housing, small business and fiscal restraint. He once voted against a rate increase for the costly community center, arguing the council needed to do more to reduce the facility’s financial dependence on city general funding.

His time on the council ended when he resigned his seat for unstated “personal reasons” in August 2015. The family has asked that donations be made to Angels Anonymous Inc. (Non-Profit 501C-3. The Tax ID is 931277844), in memory of Jim’s lifelong passion for helping others