In Memory
Davis, Capt. Albert James (5 May 25)
Fellow Horse Guards,
It is with heartfelt sadness that we inform you of the passing of Captain Albert James Davis, known to all as Jim, on May 5, 2025, at the age of 93.
Born on January 3, 1932, Jim grew up in Toronto and attended East York Collegiate Institute and Danforth Technical Institute. He led a long, full life filled with love, friendship, and adventure. For thirty-eight wonderful years, he shared a steadfast partnership with his beloved wife Linda, whose love and support meant everything to him. Jim cherished the many friendships he made throughout his life, and those connections brought him great joy. (And yes — his fondness for Skittles and licorice was well known to all who knew him!)
Jim’s career was marked by dedication, service, and excellence. As Training Officer in the Toronto Police Mounted Unit and with the Governor General’s Horse Guards Regiment, Jim played a central role in many mounted escorts with the Regiment’s Cavalry Squadron. His exceptional skills as a horse trainer were internationally recognized, with his expertise sought by police services in Barbados and other parts of the world.
Jim’s military service with the Regiment began in July 1950 and continued until his retirement in 1984. Rising through the ranks from Senior NCO to Regimental Sergeant Major, and later serving as Captain and Regimental Transport Officer, Jim ensured the Regiment’s vehicles were always in impeccable condition — often thanks to his memorable visits (sometimes in police uniform!) to Base Toronto’s vehicle repair facility.
We are honoured to share the following personal tribute from Lieutenant Colonel John Burns, former Commanding Officer of the Governor General’s Horse Guards:
“When I joined our Regiment, Jim was a Senior NCO who rose to become the Regimental Sergeant Major and then Captain and Regimental Transport Officer. He was a tireless steward of the Regiment’s equipment and vehicles and was known for his great humour and his famous horse, Barney, whose antics — particularly chasing motorcycles in the ravines — became legendary stories.
I also remember the day, as a young officer, when a friend and I were stopped for speeding on Yonge Street — by none other than Jim himself, on mounted patrol! With a smile and a word of caution, he sent us on our way. Even after retirement, I regularly called Jim to seek his insight on Regimental history and other matters. We shared time on the Warriors Day Parade Council, where he eventually entrusted me with his longtime role as Parade Announcer. Jim was a true gentleman: I valued his company, respected his humanity, and appreciated his professionalism. I will miss him very much. My sincere condolences go out to Linda and her family.”
– LCol John Burns, Past Commanding Officer, GGHG
In keeping with Jim’s wishes, there will be no formal service at this time. Linda will be maintaining Jim’s Facebook account at facebook.com/jim.davis.927980 to stay connected with friends and colleagues.
On behalf of the members of the Governor General’s Horse Guards Regiment, we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to Linda and her family. Jim’s remarkable legacy, his service, and his warm, generous spirit will forever be remembered by all those who had the honour of knowing him.
Rest in peace, Jim. You will always remain a cherished member of the GGHG family.
With respect,
Sgt (Ret’d) Colin Rowe, CD
Communications Director
Governor General’s Horse Guards Association