"When I began this journey, little did I know how it would
affect me. The experience and challenge of the LeatherSIR title
system has given me the opportunity to expand my horizons,
grow as both a man and a Sir, and establish friendships that will
last the rest of my life. I have had the opportunity to make a
difference in our struggling, smaller communities. While there
simply wasn't enough time to achieve all of my goals, I stayed
true to my beliefs and to myself. ... As our community struggles to
find its way through difficult times, I see hope. ... It is our
loyalty, brotherhood, and compassion for each other that permits
us to not only come together, but to move forward. The beginning
of this journey placed my feet upon a path that would permit me
to leave my mark upon our community. However, in doing so, the
community has left its mark upon me. It is my hope that each of
you has the opportunity to see your niche in the leather family
and realize your full potential as men, women, and leatherfolk.
It has been an honor and a pleasure to be your representative."
— Robert Davis, commenting on his year as International LeatherSIR 2004
A true gentleman who displayed honor and integrity as he moved
through our world, Sir Robert Davis, International LeatherSIR 2004,
passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home on
September 10, 2008. Friends close to Robert report he died of a heart
attack. He will be forever missed by
his partner George, his family, and countless friends.
Robert was the 2005 recipient of the Pantheon Man of the Year
and Community Choice Man of the Year for his community work and
personal efforts. A pillar of the leather community and will be
deeply missed by all who knew. He warmed those around him with a
ready smile and always kind words of encouragement. Robert
learned basic, conversational American Sign Language so that he
could better communicate with his leather brothers and sisters,
and forge new friendships, often attending deaf leather contests
in Washington DC and Baltimore.
A native of western Maryland, Robert served for six years in the United
States Navy submarine fleet. He was an associate member of the
Shipmates Club of Baltimore, Maryland. A charter member of New
Light Metropolitan Community Church in Hagerstown, Maryland,
Robert was instrumental in initiating the church's involvement in
the homeless shelter program. He involved himself with AIDS relief
charities since 1992. He helped raise funds for Moveable Feast,
The Whitman-Walker Clinic and Brother Help Thyself, to name a few.
He was a founding member of the Washington DC's first LeatherPride committee.
He was also an associate of C.O.M.M.A.N.D. MC.
His family has requested a private service for immediate family only.
A memorial service will be arranged by close friends on
Sunday, September 28, 2008, from 2:00 to 6:00pm at Club Hippo
(1 West Eager St, Baltimore MD 21201).
Donations may be made in Robert's name to C.O.M.M.A.N.D. MC, the
Greene-Baker Fund, PO Box 22415, Baltimore, MD 21203.
Correspondence for Robert’s partner George or Robert’s family, should be
sent c/o Rik Newtown-Treadway via email at newton-treadway@comcast.net or by postal mail to 6702 Rosemont Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21206.
