Daytona Beach, Fla. (July 13, 2025) – With the passing of Robert “Bob” Davis, Daytona Beach has lost far more than a hospitality leader — it has lost a voice, a mentor, a tireless advocate, and a cherished member of its heart and soul.
Bob Davis, the longtime president and CEO of the Lodging & Hospitality Association of Volusia County, leaves behind a legacy unmatched in scope and spirit. For nearly 60 years, he was not just a fixture of the tourism and hospitality industries — he was their backbone, their compass, and their greatest champion. His passing marks the end of an era in Volusia County, one that has been shaped by his relentless energy, fierce advocacy, and unwavering commitment to people.
A Tireless Advocate for Tourism
Davis was often referred to as “The Mouth of the South,” not just for his distinct voice but for his unyielding passion in promoting Daytona Beach as a premier destination. He understood long before many others that tourism wasn’t just about attracting visitors — it was about building community prosperity. Under his leadership, the region saw visitor numbers swell from just over 8 million to more than 10 million annually. And he never stopped fighting for the frontline workers and local businesses that made that success possible.
To lose Bob Davis is to lose a champion who never sat on the sidelines. Whether it was a 5 a.m. email filled with industry news or a heartfelt plea to city leaders, Bob made sure that no one forgot the value of hospitality — or the people behind it.
A Beloved Mentor and Educator
Davis’ impact extended far beyond boardrooms and press conferences. He was a mentor to generations of hotel managers, tourism professionals, and students. He served on the Board of Hospitality Management at Daytona State College and the Board of Counselors at Bethune-Cookman University, investing his time and wisdom into future leaders.
In 2023, Daytona State College honored him with the Bob Davis Culinary and Hospitality Endowed Scholarship — a fitting tribute to a man who believed that education was the key to unlocking opportunity in the hospitality industry. His name will now live on in the achievements of every student who earns a degree because of that scholarship.
The Human Side of Hospitality
Those who worked with Davis remember his encyclopedic knowledge of the local industry, but more so, they remember his humanity. Whether it was checking in on someone during a storm or advocating fiercely for hotel workers during crises, Bob never lost sight of the people behind the profession.
“Bob Davis, our community was honored to have you in it. Whether it was tourism, education or just community involvement, nobody fought harder or believed in Beachside Daytona more than you. Your spirit, spunk, capitalized emails and ability to let us all know we were going to be participating no matter what will be sadly missed. But your legacy will live on forever in Daytona. Well done sir, a life well lived,” shared Krista Dowling Goodrich via social media upon hearing of his passing.
A Life That Touched Thousands
Bob Davis wasn’t flashy, but he was unforgettable. Known for his sandpaper voice, his signature New York Mets cap, and his ballroom dancing, he had a way of bringing joy to any room he entered. His passing leaves a silence that is hard to fill — not just in the tourism sector, but across the entire Daytona Beach community.
At a time when many would have slowed down, Davis pushed forward — even during his cancer treatments, showing up to events, sending emails, and thanking others instead of seeking recognition for himself. As he humbly said at a recent tribute, “It’s not me. It’s you that drive me, that give me the hope.”
A Legacy That Will Never Fade
As Daytona Beach reflects on the life and legacy of Bob Davis, one truth remains clear: his voice, though now quieted, will echo for generations. His work shaped the city’s growth, his leadership nurtured its talent, and his heart touched every corner of the community.
“Bob leaves behind an incredible legacy. What an extraordinary gentleman. He will be missed,” said Craig Uppercue, board member of the Volusia Cultural Alliance, via social media.
There are leaders, and then there are legends. Bob Davis was both.
In his honor, remember that in hospitality, it’s never just about business. It’s about people.
Social media tributes Include:
Jay Michael Burton, President/CEO Daytona Beach Baseball – “This is a tough afternoon as I learned of the passing of my good friend, Bob Davis. An legend and icon in the hospitality business for many years and as President of the Volusia County Hospitality and Lodging Association. Bob’s actions were always based on what’s best for Volusia County. Bob had a major impact for years on making Daytona Beach and Volusia County a much better place! To say he will be missed in an understatement. Rest in peace my friend.”
Rodney Cruise, Sr. Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – “Bob was a great leader and friend – a true tireless advocate trying to make our community better every day! He will be missed!”
Matthew Reinhart, Volusia County Councilman Vice Chairman & District 2 – “Bob Davis was more than just Volusia County’s most passionate advocate for the hospitality industry—he was one of the most sincere, generous, and dedicated individuals I’ve ever had the privilege to know.”
