Gary Allen Davies

Gary Allen Davies, 73, of Morgantown, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer on July 26, 2023. Gary was born on August 28, 1949, to the late William and Arettia Davies in Cassville, WV. Gary was married to his high school sweetheart, Helen (Kennedy) Davies, of Morgantown, on June 19, 1971, and recently celebrated 52 years of marriage.

Gary was a hard worker and began stocking shelves at Thorofare at age 16. He graduated from University High School and continued working at Thorofare while pursuing his Business degree at WVU and serving in the Army Reserves. He left WVU to pursue the opportunity of Manager-in-training through Thorofare, where he stayed until the company closed. Gary’s desire to provide for his young family caused him to switch gears and become a coal miner like many family members before him until he retired in 2009.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, two children, their spouses, and six grandchildren; Heather & John Paul Putney, along with their three children (Weston, Helena, and Tanner) of Pittsburgh, PA; as well as Kristin & Danny Harbert and their three children (Luke, Khloe, and Kendall) of Barboursville, WV. He is also survived by his sister Judy and Jerry Smith of Youngstown, OH, brothers and sisters in law, Ed & Roberta Kennedy of Clarksburg, WV, Anita Kennedy of Savannah, GA, David & Terri Kennedy of Leland, NC, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three siblings, and their spouses: his oldest brother Don & Wanda Davies of Youngstown, OH; sister Deloris, “Dolly” & Earl McGettigan of Westover, WV, and brother Rich & Alice Davies of Grafton, WV a niece Sherry Snyder of Richmond, VA and his father and mother in law Eddie & Marguerite Kennedy of Morgantown, WV.

Gary loved spending time with his family and old friends while drinking coffee overlooking “Davies Park” and taking in the wild, wonderful beauty of West Virginia. He loved hunting with his big brothers and Dad, playing cards, and fishing. Gary was a natural athlete and played football, basketball, and baseball. He especially enjoyed playing baseball and later community softball with friends. An avid sports fan, Gary was a Mountaineer through and through; he also loved watching the Steelers and Pirates play. Gary had a sharp wit and quick mind, which he exercised nightly while watching Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and playing “Name that tune” with music and artists from the 60s. Gary’s greatest joys were throwing balls, fishing, and playing with his grandchildren. He was a great “Papaw,” father, and husband and will be dearly missed.

The family is planning an intimate Celebration of Life gathering on August 12, 2023, with close family and friends to commemorate his life.