Glen F. Davis

May 6, 1932 – April 1, 2024

In the early morning hours of April 1, 2024, Glen F. Davis, masterful teller of stories and jokes, passed away and joined his beautiful saint of a wife in Heaven.

Glen was charming, kindhearted, generous, mischievous, and sometimes even belligerent, but above all, he was a master of humor. His jokes and stories were legendary, so it is especially poignant that he passed away on April Fool’s Day, a day that symbolizes his wit and laughter.

Glen F. Davis was born in Chicago, IL, in 1932 to Glen F. Davis, Sr., and Mary Winifred (McIntyre) Davis. Glen was the protective older brother to three siblings, Charlie, George, and Winnie. The family moved from Chicago, and the children grew up in Topeka, KS.

Glen’s journey was marked by remarkable achievements. He joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 19, serving as a signalman on the USS Elektra during the Korean War. After returning to Topeka, KS, he pursued higher education at Washburn University and became a member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. In June 1955, he married Judy (Greer) Davis and embarked on a successful career in Life Insurance. Glen’s dedication to his profession was evident in his active involvement in several professional organizations, including the prestigious National Association of Life Underwriters. He held every position on the board, including President, and was honored as the Man of the Year in 1984, a testament to his hard work and commitment.

When Glen and Judy moved to Manhattan, KS, in 1966, they not only raised five children but also became integral parts of the community. Glen was a dedicated community member, actively involved in local politics and several charitable organizations. He was an avid jogger who worked with the city to create the walking path surrounding City Park in Manhattan, KS, a testament to his commitment to improving the community he loved. Glen and Judy then moved to Lawrence, KS in 1987. While they loved the town of Lawrence, they remained passionate K-State Wildcat fans. Glen continued his community involvement in Lawrence and became active in Trinity Episcopal Church, St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, Rotary (“On Monday, I’m a Rotarian”), Habitat for Humanity, BackSnack program, usher at The Lied Center, and when he was in his early 80’s, he delivered meals to “The old people” and joined the Bike and Beer club!

Life with Glen was a constant source of joy and laughter. Whether it was a casual gathering with a few friends, a lively cocktail party, or a grand charity event, Glen’s presence always brought a smile to everyone’s face, and sometimes an eye roll from his patient wife who had heard every joke and punchline in his toolbox. If you heard an uproar of laughter, you could be sure that Glen Davis was at the heart of it, creating unforgettable moments of joy.

To quote his favorite author, Stephen R. Covey, “Live, love, laugh, leave a legacy.” Whether it be his stories living on through generations or his grandchildren fondly remembering him as Santa every year, Glen truly left a legacy of laughter and is a reminder to us all that if things get hard, you can always find the humor in life.

Glen was preceded in death by his wife, Judy (Greer) Davis and his siblings, Charles McIntyre Davis, George McIntyre Davis and Winifred Mary (Davis) Mai. He is survived by his five children, Cheryl (Steve) Parsons, Gregory (Laura) Davis, Cathleen (John Crain) Gorby, Diane (Peter) Fox and Geoffrey (Julie) Davis, thirteen grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.

Join us for a celebration of Glen’s life:

June 1.

11:00 a.m. Reception to follow.

Warren-McElwain Mortuary

120 W 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044

In lieu of flowers:

Children’s Mercy Hospital. Designated to Ward Family Heart Center

2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108

EIN #44-0605373

Lawrence Habitat for Humanity