A Family Tribute to Homer S. Davies
Today we honor the remarkable life of our father, Homer S. Davies, who passed away on January 3 at the age of 90, surrounded by love.
To us, he was many things at once. A brilliant engineer—sharp, curious, endlessly problem-solving—but even more than that, he was someone people leaned on. Over and over in the days following his passing, we've heard the same words: "I didn't just lose a colleague, a mentor, or a neighbor—I lost my best friend." That was Dad. He always showed up.
He served four years in the United States Air Force, including a tour in Morocco, and later earned a degree in engineering from Southern Polytechnic State University in Atlanta. His long career as a senior engineer at TECO reflected who he was—methodical, thoughtful, and deeply capable. But titles never defined him. Character did.
For many years, Dad served as Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 83 in Riverview, Florida. He mentored and inspired countless young men, including several Scouts who he guided through the preparation and commitment required to walk the entire Appalachian Trail.
He was married for 45 years to our mother, JoAnn Davies, the love of his life. When her health declined, Dad became her caregiver, retiring early and caring for her for fifteen years with constancy and grace until her death in 2002. That devotion defined him as much as anything else ever could.
Dad was generous with his time, his knowledge, his wisdom, and his heart. He was always willing to lend a hand, to explain something patiently, to sit quietly and listen, or to let someone cry on his shoulder. He had a rare gift for making people feel safe, understood, supported, and capable. His advice was sought out by many—not because he was loud or forceful, but because he was wise and steady.
He found joy in simple, hands-on things: fishing, woodworking, hiking, biking, and fixing anything mechanical. If something was broken, he believed it could be understood—and made right.
We are heartbroken—but profoundly grateful. Grateful to call him Dad. Grateful for the life he lived, the love he gave, and the countless lives he touched. We will carry him with us always.
Dad is survived by his brother, Syd Davies; his children, Gus Davies (Pam), Susan Klieman (Daniel), and John Davies (Heather); his grandchildren, Rachael Qureshi (Nisar), Jordan Davies (Kim), Elliot Klieman, Devon Johnson, Julia Klieman, and Lyla Davies; and his great-granddaughter, River Qureshi.
He was preceded in death by his wife, JoAnn Davies; his parents, Evan and Gladys Davies; and his brothers, Bill Davies and Glyn Davies.