Iris I. Devine Davis

Iris I. Devine Davis passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, in Austin, Texas, enveloped by the warmth and love of her family.

Iris was born on June 8, 1937, to Warren and Opal Devine in Glencoe, Oklahoma. She married Gerald “Dale” Davis on May 11, 1956. Together, they had three beautiful children. Deborah Davis Groves (Randall), Gerald Dale Davis II (Jacqueline “Jackie”) and Michael Dale Davis.

Iris and Dale’s journey together was nothing short of remarkable. They established Great Guns Logging, Digital Logging, Davis Ranch, Davis Feedlot, and other ventures that thrived under their leadership. Iris served as Vice President until she and her son, Gary, decided to sell the companies after Dale’s death so she could enjoy the retirement they had looked forward to. Iris’ greatest achievement lay in her role as a mother, one she cherished deeply and later as “Mimi.” Her legacy continues through her seven beloved grandchildren: Aubrey Groves (Thomas Sitch), RaeChelle R. Davis (Ryan), Jordan Groves, Jerod Davis (Alexis), Everly Groves Petruzzelli (Michael), Austin Davis (fiancé Haley Sieben), and Bryce Davis. She would proudly tell you about her great-grands as well. Ariella Davis (9), Michael Ryan Davis (6), Kai Sitch (3), Aidan Petruzzelli (3 months) and Olivia Davis (2 months).

Iris has been reunited in heaven with her husband Dale Davis, her beloved son Michael Dale Davis, and a host of other loved ones, including her parents and her siblings: Edith Flaming, Margie Blair, Irma Glover, John Devine, and Gene Devine.

If there is one word to describe Iris, it would be survivor. After enduring the tragic loss of her youngest son at just 16 and later her husband, both in devastating accidents, she penned a book titled ‘Chasing the Wind’ to offer solace and guidance to those coping with their grief.

She also found healing through music. Her resounding singing voice, often compared to the legendary Patsy Cline, was reaffirmed during a chance encounter with Patsy’s friend on the Queen Mary II in 2010. Despite numerous offers to enter show business, Iris chose to put her family first and instead recorded CDs with her close friend Tim Burleson.

Every interaction with Iris was a lesson in tenacity. From ruling the basketball court in her youth to her indomitable presence on the tennis court, where she earned the nickname “Killer” at the net, and her unforgettable drive on the golf course, Iris embodied the spirit of competition. Her zest for life shone through everything she did – even relishing a game of Gin Rummy or Farkle. Her grandchildren all knew better than even to attempt to cheat!

Iris brought this same spirit both times she battled and survived breast cancer. She became a beacon of hope for others and a major donor to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Iris’ family would like to thank her incredible caretakers, Mary Lou Lugo, Daiana Galvez, and Myrna Berrios of Cella Bella, the Halcyon Hospice team- especially Michelle- and the whole Querencia first-floor staff.

To our Mother and Mimi: We’ll never see a flower without thinking of you. Every ray of sunshine will remind us of your radiant smile, and every melodious tune will bring memories of your enchanting voice. Your smile could light up a room, and your laugh was contagious. Your voice was always warm and welcoming, and you will be missed beyond measure. Your radiant light lives on in each of us, and we know your strength and joy will stay with us until we meet again.

A memorial celebration of life will occur at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 7, at First United Methodist Church 305 w. 7th in Hays, Kansas. A graveside service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Susan G. Komen or the First United Methodist Church of Hays in Iris’ memory.

Memories and words of comfort may be left on Iris’s tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.