Brian Llewellyn Davies

1969 - 2023

Brian Llewellyn Davies (Rear Admiral, United States Navy) died peacefully at home in Norfolk, Virginia, on December 30, 2023, after a five-and-a-half-year battle with Ocular Melanoma.

Brian was born on November 5, 1969, in Wilmington, Delaware. He attended the United States Naval Academy where he was a Trident Scholar and earned a Bachelor of Science in Ocean Engineering in 1991. A member of the 27th Company and an accomplished coxswain on the USNA crew team, Brian maintained lifelong friendships with his classmates and teammates. Following his time at the Naval Academy, he earned a Master of Science in Acoustics from the Pennsylvania State University.

Brian proudly served as a U.S. Navy Submarine Officer for more than 32 years, with assignments on both fast attack and ballistic missile submarines. As commanding officer of the USS Jimmy Carter, he led a crew of 200 sailors while out of communication with the rest of the world for months at a time. Brian demonstrated a quiet competence, steadfastness, and devotion that drew others to him as a true leader. He later served as Commodore, Submarine Squadron ELEVEN, and as a flag officer, he was Commander, Submarine Group TWO with additional duties as Deputy Commander, Second Fleet. Brian accepted any challenge and was regarded as a professional who took work seriously but did not take himself too seriously.

Brian's decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, and Legion of Merit (five awards), among many others. Throughout his career, he was known for his integrity and kindness. Brian was an empathetic, caring leader who always helped those around him and looked out for their well-being. He truly was a "Sailor's Sailor."

An avid runner, Brian found happiness and peace on the trails, on the roads, and on a treadmill in a submarine beneath the depths. He shared his joy in running with family and friends over many miles, from 5ks to 50-mile ultramarathons. Brian loved Orioles baseball - whether listening to a game on the radio, watching a game in the ballpark, or just chatting baseball with his dad.

Brian was a devoted husband, father, son, and friend. He had a warm smile and a contagious laughter, and relished quality time with his loved ones. Brian always saw the good in others. He was faithful, gracious, and exuded positivity in every facet of his life. Brian was a shining light who made a profound difference in the lives of many.

Brian is survived by his wife of 16 years, Kacey Hickey Davies; daughter, Caitlin Elizabeth Davies; mother and father, Sandy and Harry Davies; brother, Keith Davies (Bianca); and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. Brian was loved by many who will forever miss his earthly presence.

A memorial service will be held at The Brigade of Midshipmen Chapel at the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD, on January 18, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. followed immediately by the inurnment at the USNA Cemetery. A Requiem Eucharist will be celebrated at his home parish of Grace-St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Memphis, TN, on January 27, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. preceded by a visitation at 10 a.m. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Navy Crew Excellence Fund at https://www.usna.com/give?fund=94140000 or by mail, earmarked for Navy Crew in memory of RADM Brian Davies '91 at USNA Foundation, 301 King George St., Annapolis, MD 21402. Donations may also be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society at Make a Difference. Donate Today. (nmcrs.org) or by mail in memory of RADM Brian Davies at NMCRS, 875 N Randolph St, Suite 225, Arlington, VA 22203.