"Barry Davis was a brilliant defender and ruck rover who was one of the greats of the VFL in the 1960s and 1970s," AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon said in a tribute.
"A triple premiership player and five-time best and fairest winner across his career, he was also a regular state representative for Victoria and a hero to young fans at both of his clubs.
"Barry will be remembered as a pivotal player at both the Bombers and the Kangaroos and we send our sympathies to his family, many friends and past teammates."