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Lenning Alston Davis Jr.

NORTH CANAAN — Lenning Alston Davis Jr., 83, died Oct. 24, 2009, at Noble Horizons in Salisbury. He was the husband of Smae (Spaulding) Davis. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Lenning was born Aug. 4, 1926, in Lynchburg, Va., the son of the late Margaret (Deane) and Lenning A. Davis Sr.

Lenning served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II, after which he moved to New York City.

During his career as a writer, he worked for Time Magazine, Life Magazine and Sports Illustrated. Later, he and his wife moved to the West Coast, where Lenning became the co-director of the Lehman Engle Theatre Workshop in Los Angeles.

After moving to North Canaan in 1990, he remained involved with the workshop, returning twice a year to teach classes.

In addition to his wife, Lenning is survived by his brother, Dr. Richard Davis of Claremont, Calif.; his stepmother, Esther Davis of Pittsburgh, Pa.; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of the Newkirk-Palmer Funeral Home in North Canaan.

Lakeville Journal

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