Mark C. Davis

Mark Collin Davis passed away on Thursday, July, 8, 2021, at home after a brief illness.

Memorial services with Rev. Keith Dyer officiating, will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 31, 2021 at Hay Valley Baptist Church, 3110 Hay Valley Road, Gatesville, TX 76528.      

Mark was a man who loved life.  He was born in Gatesville, on June 18, 1961 to the late Thelma and Curtis A. Davis, Sr. He was raised in a wonderful Christian home and forever loved his family, his friends and the town of Gatesville. Mark attended The University of Texas and then went on to a successful career as a land developer, broker and ranch expert.        

In 2004, Mark married Rebecca Nelson of Austin whom he loved and cherished until his death.  His affection for her was inspiring to all who knew them.  They shared a love of Labradors, the outdoors, travel, music and entertaining. They also shared many fun adventures including South Texas bird hunts, fly fishing trips on the Texas coast and summers in Montana.          

Mark’s career in real estate spanned 40 years. When he looked at a ranch or any other piece of land, it seemed like it spoke to him.  He observed “the dirt,” the flowers, the trees, the cattle, the birds … whatever was there.  Then he started to share – quietly but with the authority and knowledge that years of experience and study bring – as he laid out what the property’s future could and should be.  His vision always left the honor and integrity of the land intact while its evolution would be part of its natural destiny.  He loved the land of Texas.  And, like so many others, it loved him back.        

Mark’s special gift and passion were his friends. He was charismatic, loyal and a true friend to untold numbers. A born communicator, he was not interested in texts or email; he wanted to hear your voice and talk to you either in person or on the telephone. He was direct and not shy about offering his opinion. Mark loved to plan festive events, gather friends, have lunch, and tell long hilarious stories, all while lighting up a room with his warm smile and cheerful personality. He had a gift with children and made them feel like they were the center of the world.   When he got tickled a whole room could find themselves laughing. He was the camp director and the ring leader, and kids and adults alike were the beneficiaries. He also knew how to be with friends in their times of need. He understood tough times, was unwavering and was always there to listen and offer a broad shoulder to lean on.

Mark was honest and offered leadership and vision to his business partners and associates.  He was generous, kind and devoted to his family, friends and community. He will be missed beyond measure and will endure in our hearts forever. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Curtis A. Davis, Jr.     

In addition to his wife, Rebecca, Mark is survived by his brother Gary J. Davis and wife, Sherri; mother-in-law, Carol Corley Nelson; brothers-in-law, Tom E. Nelson III and John C. Nelson and wife, Kristen; many nieces, nephews, cousins and his beloved dogs, Jud and Duke.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to his many wonderful caregivers.  May he rest in Peace.        

In lieu of flowers, Rebecca has designated that memorials be made to The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd (https://gsaustin.org); Gatesville I.S.D. Education Foundation, P.O. Box 245, Gatesville, TX 76528; Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation – Priority Land Conservation Acquisitions (https://tpwd.texas.gov), or a charity of your choice.