Neil Davies

11/2/26

Neil Davies passed away peacefully at home on November 2nd, surrounded by the love of his family, having recently celebrated his 80th birthday.

Born in Wales, Neil grew up in England alongside his younger sister, Julia. He went on to study engineering at Leeds University before beginning his career as a gas engineer in the north of England.

Neil was always quick to embrace a new adventure, and this was never more evident than when he moved with his family to Malaysia, changing career, climate, and continent in a single go. That move was the first of many. In 1981 Neil and Louise began their American adventure, eventually calling Colorado, California, New Hampshire, Georgia, Florida, and New York home. Neil appreciated each of these places in its own way, although he occasionally observed that the move from the San Francisco Bay Area to New Hampshire represented something of a downgrade in terms of both dim sum restaurants and sourdough bread.

Although trained as an engineer, Neil was very much a people person. This combination served him well throughout a successful career at Hewlett Packard, Digital Equipment Corporation, and Compaq, where he found his increasingly senior roles to be challenging and rewarding. Neil took early retirement in 2002, and did so with a palpable sense of delight. This new chapter brought new adventures. Neil and Louise travelled extensively, visiting all seven continents and all 50 states. They also became enthusiastic birdwatchers; never one to do things halfway, Neil served as president of the Flagler County Audubon Society. He approached birdwatching and travel with the same curiosity and enthusiasm that had characterized so much of his life, always eager to discover somewhere new and appreciate the natural world.

Neil also enjoyed the pleasures of home life. He was an amazing cook, loved good food and particularly good cheese and a gourmet dessert. He also loved spending time outdoors, happily pottering in the garden and tending to it with great care.

A lifelong Arsenal Soccer supporter, he followed the fortunes of his team with enduring loyalty and was equally passionate about Formula 1 and the Tour de France. Whether discussing Premier League soccer, following a Grand Prix, planning a meal, or discovering a new bird, Neil brought enthusiasm and genuine interest to everything he loved.

Above all, retirement meant more time with family. Neil and Louise eventually settled in Skaneateles, New York, to be closer to their grandchildren, Paige and Colin. They brought him enormous happiness, and being part of their lives was among his greatest pleasures. Neil is survived by his beloved wife, Louise; his children, Owen and Caitlin, and their spouses Charlotte and Jeff; his cherished grandchildren, Paige and Colin; and his sister, Julia.

Neil lived a life full of adventure, curiosity, and discovery, but his greatest happiness was always found in the company of those he loved. He will be remembered for his warmth, his sense of humor, his enthusiasm for the world around him, and his deep devotion to family.

He will be deeply missed, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

The family will be having private services and a celebration of life with family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the National Audubon Society in Neil’s memory.

To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.