DAVID CLAY WILLMON III

David C. Willmon, a cornerstone of the Riverside community and a tireless advocate for public higher education, passed away on April 20, 2026, at the age of 80. Known as a loyal friend, a trusted counselor, and an ethical leader, Dave leaves behind a legacy of service that spanned local, state, and national issues and organizations.

Born and raised in San Diego, Dave was a proud graduate of Hoover High School. Following high school, he answered the call to service, serving in the United States Army from 1967 to 1970, for which he received an honorable discharge.

Dave’s connection to the University of California, Riverside (UCR) began in the early 1970s. While an undergraduate, he served as Student Body President and News Director for KUCR. Though his professional path took him into the world of politics and public affairs, he returned to campus to complete his B.A. in History in 1985.

A tireless advocate for UCR and higher education, Dave held an unwavering belief that "the immutable public good of public higher education" was worth fighting for. He served twice as the Alumni Association President and represented his fellow UC alumni as an Alumni Regent on the UC Board of Regents. His university service was extensive, including roles on the UCR Foundation Board of Trustees, City-University Task Force, Citizens University Committee, and the Alumni & Visitors Center Committee. In 2005, Dave was honored with the Alumni Association’s Alumni Service Award.

Professionally, Dave spent his career in public affairs at California Research, later transitioning to a partner in Pacific Communications and finally with the League of California Cities. He was also the owner of the local printing company, City Press, and a pillar in the Riverside community. He was leader in the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, Monday Morning Group, Raincross Group, Riverside County Philharmonic and Riverside Arts Foundation, to name a few.

His expertise was sought at the highest levels, including service as a transition volunteer in the President George H.W. Bush administration. He also received gubernatorial appointments from George Deukmejian to the Advisory Council on Economic Development and from Pete Wilson to the Board of Governors for California Community Colleges.

Beyond the boardroom, Dave was a man of diverse and rich interests. He was a voracious reader of all genres and a passionate supporter of the theater, the symphony, and art galleries. He was known for his sharp wit, his gift for sharing stories, and for generously sharing his time and advice.

Dave is survived by his longtime friend and former spouse, Chris Willmon, with whom he remained very close throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David Sr. and Margaret Willmon.

Graveside Committal will be on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, California. Immediately following there will be a reception at Zacatecas Cafe 3767 Iowa Ave, Riverside CA 92507. Please RSVP to chriswillmon@aol.com.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Akes Family Funeral Home, Riverside, California.

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