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Owen DAVIS Obituary

DAVIS, OwenBorn July 5, 1947; passed away August 19, 2011. A gifted singer-songwriter from Kansas City, MO, found himself at home in Nashville after serving in the Navy as a journalist on Midway Island. For forty plus years, he met and had many friends here in the music industry. He wrote songs that were recorded by artist such as Mel Tillis, Nancy Sinatra and Leon Redbone to name a few. Owen wrote the theme song and was introduced in the movie "The Other Side of Nashville" that included Carl Perkins, Kenny Rogers, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams, Jr., Alabama, Chet Atkins, Terri Gibbs, Emmylou Harris and many more. He also entertained and worked in the Tourism Industry and for Stage Hand Productions. He will sadly be missed by his daughter, Shaela Wolken; his wife, Deborah; brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Deana Davis; many greatly loved nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Dorothy Davis, two of the finest people one could have ever known, always dedicated to family and friends. It is no wonder where Owen got his beauty and grace. He was greatly loved by many. We were all lucky to have known and will never forget Gerald "Owen" Davis. In lieu of flowers, the family request you consider making a contribution to the Minnie Pearl Cancer Foundation in Owen's memory at www.minniepearl.org or 615-497-1936. NASHVILLE FUNERAL AND CREMATION, (615) 256-1605.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Tennessean on Sep. 4, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
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Deborah Dixon Davis

May 24, 2017

My precious Owen, you are in my heart and soul every day and night. I miss you and look forward to being with you again my love.

May 23, 2017

We just saw this. Owen stood up for us at our wedding on May 5, 1977, in Nashville. He was a great friend, but we lost touch many years ago. May he Rest In Peace and rise in glory.

Rafael and Sue Seibert, Mineral Wells TX

Scott robinette

January 31, 2012

Gary you are loved and missed, It was always the greatest at holidays to see you at the family gatherings.. knowing you brought your guitar and all us kids begging for a song. You made all of them gatherings fond memories . Love, Scott Robinette

Jane Kelley Watt

October 11, 2011

My dear friend, Owen. I didn't know you had left us until tonight. I find it very ironic that you passed away in August and our friend, Mike Robbins, passed away in October. I would like to think that you two have already started writing more songs. You were such a wonderful friend and neighbor and you will be missed so very much. I will always remember you with much love.

We so enjoyed Owen being here in Kansas City for his birthday! He shared many memories and lots of stories! We miss him! Ann Nickell and Staff

Ann Nickell

September 28, 2011

carla knowles

September 26, 2011

I met Owen back in the late 70s when we were both shepherding hordes of tourists all over Nashville as tour guides. As I got to know him, I realized that along with his talent for music,singing and songwriting, he was also a very good hearted person, a kind and gentle soul. I got a "real job", moved away, and we lost touch. I was stunned to see his obituary and can't help but wonder what happened. He was too young to go-the good die young cliche not withstanding. But reading others comments, I can see that he never changed.He stayed the person whose greatest gift to the world was not just his music but the person he was. I offer my deepest sympathy to his family and hope that all the offerings they read here will be some consolation at this time,however,bittersweet.

Dee Stephenson

September 9, 2011

While my dear Gary was in Kansas City, my friends Mona and Meri and I would go to where ever he was playing his guitar and singing. We would buy a bottle of wine and sit eating our crackers and cheese and sing along. We all stayed in touch for all these years and will miss his presence here on Earth so very much.
Love you forever, Gary Owen Davis.

L J Coon

September 9, 2011

Owen Davis July 5, 1947 / August 19, 2011
Navy Veteran

March-30 Veterans Welcome Home Day
Welcome Home
written by L J Coon

Welcome home my friend, from so much suffering
Welcome home my friend, step out of the pain
It’s ok to cry, we've all seen tears before
Its ok my friend welcome home

Talk of love one’s lost, so many years ago
And how you hurt inside, till no more tears would flow
Let the healing start, you can't look back no more
Its ok my friend welcome home

Welcome home, from so much suffering
Welcome home, step out of the pain
It’s ok to cry, we've all seen tears before
Its ok my friend, welcome home

Could I somehow sooth, your pain that lives within
If you just let go, the healing will begin
Holding on so tight, letting go is half the test
Its ok my friend welcome home

Welcome home, from so much suffering
Welcome home, step out of the pain
It’s ok to cry, we've all seen tears before
Its ok my friend, welcome home

It’s ok my friend…the pain won't hurt, no more ...


L J Coon
[email protected]

Ann Nickell

September 8, 2011

Owen was loved by his friends so much here in Kansas City. He showed us the "house that built me" on 99th and Blue Ridge Blvd. when he was here to visit. He loved music, people and life. We will miss him so much! Ann and Nellie

Gayle Toms

September 7, 2011

As youngsters growing up we were very close. So much laughter and many pranks. Although our lives went in other directions, each time we met up again it was so special. I thank God you were a part of my life dear cousin. You have joined a very great bunch of Gurneys and Davis's. Till we all meet up again.

Steve Sackrider

September 7, 2011

Owen was one of the good guys in a world that needs more. I'll miss my friend.

Christy Hall

September 7, 2011

I will never forget the times on Roberta Dr in Nashville especially when I had to help scrape the paint off the fireplace in your music room. I love you and you will be forever missed love you niece Christy Myrick Hall

Evelyn "Goble" Steen

September 7, 2011

So sorry to say goodbye. I went to school with "Gary" and we were particularly good friends in junior high. I'll always remember how much he loved Elvis records and dancing. I was looking forward to seeing him again at our 50th class reunion. He will be missed.

Shawna Davis

September 7, 2011

Owen, you are a sweet, gentle soul. It was a privilege and an honor to call you my cousin, but you were more of a friend. You never seemed to tire of me asking you questions about all the musicians you worked with and you always had the time for a smile and a hug! Thank you for the many smiles and laughs we had throughout the years. You are greatly loved and missed! Until we meet again, one day. Love ya!

Bob Dixon

September 6, 2011

Owen was a brilliant person. He was a killer at trivia pursuit and a great friend who knew how to challenge my thinking.

Ed and Marlene DeWeese

September 5, 2011

Owen was the kindest, most caring person anyone could of known. His frequent calls and his laugh will be greatly missed. His interest in music was so helpful when a question would come up it was, "I know I'll call Owen." God had a different plan for him than what we had for this summer. His retirement was to bring us together for many good times in Nashville. We will cherish all the good times with him and miss him greatly. Loving you and missing you Owen, you were the best!

Kim Davis-Rice

September 5, 2011

Owen, you were my cousin that I did not get to see or speak to nearly enough. Your involvement in the country music industry always intrigued me. Our love of music always gave us something to talk about. I will miss your smile and kindheartedness... rest in peace.

Jeanette Davis Warren

September 5, 2011

I don't remember meeting Owen as I was less than a month old. We have been life long friends as well as cousins. I was thrilled to live in Nashville area for 14 years where we renewed our friendship in person. I will miss Owen's frequent calls just to chat. He was a kind, caring person who touched many lives.

Jim Parker

September 4, 2011

As long time friends and co-writers, I will miss this man who I so loved! Stay in touch my brother!

Loving memories, Jim
Jim Parker's Songwriters Series

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