By Robert Haugh
Over the Easter weekend, the Santa Clara community learned of the passing of former Councilmember Debi Davis.
Mayor Lisa Gillmor published this statement on social media:
“It is with profound sadness that I share the news of Former Councilwoman Debi Davis’s passing following a short illness. For many years, Debi served the people of Santa Clara with unwavering dedication, integrity, and compassion. Her tireless advocacy for our community left an indelible mark on our city …
“As both her colleague on the Council and her friend, I witnessed firsthand her remarkable ability to listen to constituents, find common ground on difficult issues, and champion causes that improved the lives of Santa Clara residents. Debi’s wisdom, warmth, and genuine love for our city will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Davis served on the Council from 2012 to 2020. She believed in the value of every neighborhood, every resident, every voice.
Prior to running for elected office, Davis served as president of the Laurelwood Neighborhood Association, making her voice heard on community issues like traffic, safety, parks and community development.
Davis was particularly passionate about making Santa Clara a more livable and connected place. She championed improvements in parks and recreation, supported accessible transit, and advocated for smart growth that respected the city’s character while planning for its future.
Prior to her two elected terms as a Councilmember, she was a Cultural Advisory Commissioner and was President of Sister Cities Northern California.
She served as a volunteer to several Santa Clara community organizations, including the Mission City Community Fund.
I too was blessed to have gotten to know Debi as a neighbor for a few years before she and her husband moved. I appreciated her being reachable and relatable while serving on the council. I am so sad to hear this. Rest in peace.
I am sad to hear this. Debi was a true believer. We did not get along so well. But Debi did make the community a better place. Debi did try to help others and she did want to help the people.
A good testament. I felt richer knowing her.
My heart goes out to the family of Debbie. She will not be forgotten here in Santa Clara.
I was blessed to have gotten the opportunity to meet her and get to see her commitment to our City in action.
If it is public knowledge, can we get an address so we can send flowers / condolences to her service?
In some small way, this might help to show her family know she made a difference in many, many people’s lives.
Thank you Debbie, and thank you to your family for giving you the freedom to help so many other people.
You made a difference in our City, you will be missed by many, many people.
Burt Field
78′ Buchser Grad