Mervyn Vincent Davies, 76, of Franklin, passed away Saturday, June 18, 2022.

Born in South Africa, he was the son of the late Edward John and Mary Thompson Campbell Davies. He was affectionally known to many as "Merv" or "Big Merv". Merv was a former owner and publisher of the Temecula Rancho News in California. It was there where he developed his passion for photography. While in California, he also owned the Temecula Saloon. He was well known in our area for his incredible wallpaper hanging abilities.

Merv served his country in the United States Marines. His hobbies included motorcycle riding, wine tasting, bird watching, feeding the squirrels, and traveling the Western Coastline on his motorcycle. His family has said that he was "A California man that became a mountain man".

Merv is survived by four children, Lauren Matthews (Richard) of Tallahassee, FL, Samantha Davies-Smith of Wilmington, DE, Kerri Willett of Austin, TX, and Preston Davies (Katie) of Weaverville, NC; and three grandchildren, Isabella "Bella" Willett of CO, Greyson Willett of Austin, TX, and Quinn Davies of Weaverville, NC. He is also survived by siblings, Denise Kleynhans (Lars) of Toronto, Canada, Ian Davies (Holly) of Manahawkin, NJ, Cynthia "Cindy" Rose (Flemming) of Pansippany, NJ, and Cyril Davies (Tammy) of Newton, NJ; five nieces and eight nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11am, Saturday, June 25, at Macon Funeral Home. Rev. Greg Rogers will officiate. Military Honors will be provided by the American Legion Post 108 and VFW Post 7339.

The family will receive friends from 10am to 11am, one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

There will be a private burial at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Charles George VA Medical Center, 1100 Tunnel Road Asheville, NC 28805 Attention: Voluntary Services (Hospice).

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.