Robert Kelly Davis

May 28, 1942 - June 3 2025

Robert “Bob” Kelly Davis, 83, passed away on June 3, 2025, in Austin, Texas, after a brief illness. He was a loving brother, father, husband, and grandfather, and will be dearly missed.

Bob was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Mary Jane Davis (née Trager), who passed away in 1997; and by his siblings Jane Davis Schaftlein, Bill Davis, and Jack Davis, all of Louisville, Kentucky. Bob is survived by his children, Matthew Trager Davis (Mary Carolyn Roberts) of Nashville, Tennessee, and Kelly Davis-Felner (Joseph Felner) of Austin, Texas; and by his beloved grandchildren, Nora Jane Davis Felner and Emmet Davis Felner, also of Austin. He will also be fondly remembered by Frida, Fergus, Gigi, and Beep Beep, his loyal grand-dogs.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held in Nashville on July 26. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Room In the Inn Nashville.

Bob’s Life

A devoted father, curious thinker, and fiercely independent person, Bob lived a full and adventurous life rooted in love, learning, and deep appreciation for the natural world.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, on May 28, 1942, Bob was the youngest of four children. He graduated from duPont Manual High School and went on to earn both undergraduate and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering from the University of Louisville. He began his career as a mechanical engineer, later transitioning into technology sales—a field in which his analytical mind and personable nature made him especially successful. Bob volunteered at St. Henry Catholic Church, Room In the Inn, and many other organizations over the years.

He retired from professional life more than 25 years ago and embraced the opportunity to explore the country and savor time with his family.

Bob spent about 10 years traveling across the United States in his RV, chasing natural beauty, the best weather he could find, and indulging his love of discovery. Eventually, he put down roots in Central Texas to be closer to his daughter and grandchildren, remaining fiercely independent until his final days. Shortly before his death, Bob traveled to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico to celebrate New Years with his children and grandchildren.

Bob found joy in the outdoors—whether fishing, boating, or camping—and in capturing the world around him through photography. His curiosity was endless: he was a dedicated lifelong learner, especially interested in astronomy and the sciences, and he never passed up an opportunity to disassemble (and in most cases, successfully re-assemble) anything mechanical — just to see how it worked. He was a huge sports fan, at his happiest with a big football game on the TV and a beer in hand, or watching one of his kids or grandkids play any sport. At his core, he was practical and witty, with a warm heart and a deep devotion to his family.

In accordance with Bob’s independent spirit, he lived life entirely on his own terms and continued to do so until the very end. He will be remembered for his humor, intellect, and the quiet strength with which he loved those around him.

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