Taylor — Scott’s fires were legendary, he forgot more jokes than most people ever knew, and he carried his drinking water in a gasoline can. With a huge smile on his face and a joke always ready, he had an amazing ability to put others at ease. He was a natural born leader, an extremely hard worker, and serious about protecting Utah’s people, wildlife, and resources.

Scott fought a long and hard battle with cancer, first one kind, then another. Fifteen years of fighting took its toll, and he succumbed to the pneumonia that filled his lungs on August 9th, 2026. He was bigger than life, and without his presence to lighten things up, our world will always have a more somber aura. We are certain, however, that the brightest star in the heavens is actually Scott’s campfire, and the angels have gathered around to laugh at his jokes. With this thought, we can smile.

Scott was born on May 18, 1950 to Edward G. and Ethel F. Davis in Salt Lake City, UT. He was welcomed home by his two older sisters whose laughter at his antics undoubtedly encouraged the comedic side of Scott’s personality. During his youth, Scott was active in the Midvale Methodist Church and was president of the Methodist Youth Fellowship group. He was also very active in the BSA program and was an Eagle Scout. Gratefulness for his own mentors led him to give back to the program by acting as a counselor at BSA Camp Steiner in the Uinta mountains. With an extensive knowledge of all things outdoors, a lot of patience, and a lot of love, Scott showed countless boys what a man looks like.

Scott worked throughout high school, and among other things, maintained good standing in the “Hot Rod Club.” Through another club member, he was introduced to Melanie Downing, and he was smitten. After graduating from Hillcrest High in 1968, Scott worked various construction jobs to pay for college. He earned a BS in Physical Geography from the University of Utah in 1972, and in 1973 he began working for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources as a conservation officer. During this time, he continued his studies at Weber State University, focusing on criminology and biology. He graduated from Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) in 1974.

After spending several years in Vernal as an investigator, Scott returned to Davis County in the 80’s as a Sergeant, and he retired as a Lieutenant in 2013, having served 40 years with the DWR. Scott co-authored the Utah DWR’s Game Warden’s Credo and was a frequent contributor to Utah Game Warden Magazine, writing articles with his signature wit and humor. Based on his leadership, outstanding investigative skills, exemplary public service, and commitment to protecting wildlife, he was recognized by the worldwide conservation group Shikar-Safari Club International and was awarded their prestigious Wildlife Officer of the Year Award. He was also named Employee of the Year in the Northern Division, Employee of the Year statewide, and earned the Distinguished Service Award. The award that brought Scott the most laughter, however, was the Exploding Cheez Whiz Award, an honor given by his brothers in the field (IYKYK).

After returning to Davis County, Scott reconnected with Melanie, his high school sweetheart and one true love, and they were married in 2001. They shared a love of horses and being outside together. Some of their best memories were made enjoying the quiet peace and beauty surrounding the state cabin in Hayden.

Scott is preceded in death by his parents, his sisters, and his mother-in-law, Katie Mays, with whom he had a special relationship. He is survived by his wife, Melanie, his sister-in-law Jennifer Curry, brother-in-law Bob Downing (Kathi), and their children. Scott is also survived by the children he loved and proudly called his own: Chris Green (Jolynne), Michelle Froerer (Eric), Marielle Tanner (Kenny), Heidi Morris (Monte), and grandson Chris Morris.

A graveside service will be held at the Midvale City Cemetery on Saturday September 26th at 11 a.m. There will be a Celebration of Life immediately after at Vode Event Center (2888 West 4700 South, Salt Lake City). Please join us in celebrating and honoring Scott’s life. Dress is casual and jokes are mandatory.