06/15/2026
Celebrating the Life of James Alexander(Alex) Davidson II
Program:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q1v_Mut4GlEU6SydJ7KV0Q0BJXZ7B8_n/view?usp=drive_link
James Alexander Davidson II, known to all as Alex, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2026, in Camillus, New York, surrounded by his wife and children. He was 85 years old. Born on December 14, 1940, and raised on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York, Alex lived a life marked by adventure, accomplishment, and a boundless love of life.
Alex began his education at the United States Military Academy at West Point. He went on to earn a degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of Michigan before serving his country in the United States Air Force, where he worked as an aeronautical engineer and achieved the rank of Captain during his eight years of service.
Following his military career, Alex pursued his passion for racing as a professional race car driver, bringing the same focus and daring to the track that he had shown in uniform. His racing career highlights included competing in the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring, and he held the lap record at Watkins Glen. He later returned to school and earned his law degree from Syracuse University, going on to a distinguished career as an attorney, practicing law for forty years.
For forty years, Alex made his home on the shores of beautiful Skaneateles Lake. The lake suited him perfectly. He was an avid sailor and Hobie Cat racer, and on most Saturdays he could be seen cruising around the lake on his pontoon boat with his family and friends. He was also a passionate skier, and a lifelong sportsman who loved a good round of golf or a match on the tennis court. Saratoga Race Course held a special place in his heart, and he considered it one of his favorite spots in the world. A diehard New York Yankees fan from his Manhattan boyhood, when Mickey Mantle was his hero, he also became a devoted Syracuse sports fan, cheering on Orange football and basketball with the same enthusiasm.
A natural storyteller with a wonderful sense of humor, Alex drew people to him wherever he went. An accomplished cook, he was especially known for his world-famous burgers. He will be remembered for his warmth, his wit, his deep love of family, and his enduring zest for life.
Alex is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda Davidson; his son, James Alexander Davidson III (Jamie); his daughter, Caroline Alexandra Davidson; his stepchildren, John Turner, Anne Russell, and Christa Manuel; and nine grandchildren.
