Gary Davis

life story

Kind, Generous, Caring, Friendly

Gary Frank Davis passed away on May 21, 2026. He was a devoted husband to Nancy Davis, father to Tyler and Connor, father-in-law to Jess and Te'Shon, and, possibly his favorite role, grandfather to Alex. He was a friend, mentor, and touched the lives of many people.

He had a lifelong passion for theatre, culminating in his work as an actor, director, producer and board member of Applause Community Theatre, earning him the Fliehr Award for Exceptional Service to Minnesota Theater in 2025.

Of all of the roles he played, there was none more fitting of his generous spirit than that of Santa Claus, spreading holiday cheer to children and donating Santa appearances to charitable causes.

A lifelong baseball fan, he couldn't get enough and played Strat-O-Matic Baseball in two different leagues creating his own team and battling toward a dice-based world series every year. He also performed the national anthem at a St. Paul Saints game in 2018 and a Minnesota Twins game in 2013.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, sons Connor (Jess) and Tyler (Te'Shon), and siblings Sherie Davis of Coon Rapids, MN, Cindy Sardar of Tennessee, and Bob Davis of Arizona.

memorial service

Join us for a Memorial Service

June 20, 2026

St. Paul's United Church of Christ 900 Summit Ave, St Paul, MN 55105, USA

Holy Presence Catholic Community will be hosting a memorial at St. Paul's United Church of Christ for Gary. Visitation will begin at 9:30am with a full service beginning at 11:00am.

Please join us in remembering Gary.

memorial service

Join us for an Irish Wake

June 22, 2026

Half Time Rec 1013 Front Ave, St Paul, MN 55103, USA

Gary's good friend, Joe Perzel, is hosting an Irish wake at the Half Time Rec. Join us for some Irish music, some toasts to our dear friend, and bring all your best Gary stories.