Remembering Gary

We are deeply saddened to share the news that Gary Davis, a much-loved member of our team, passed away peacefully on 18 February following a cancer diagnosis last year.

Gary had been with us since the early days of the project. As our minibus driver and Maintenance Officer, he played a vital role in shaping and restoring the woodland we know so well today. His passion for the woods, and for helping people improve their mental health through outdoor work, was central to our community for over a decade. He will be sorely missed, but his legacy lives on throughout the site and in the memories of all who knew him.

Gary first visited the arboretum over 30 years ago after attending an event at the old nursery, when he decided to explore the woods for himself. He was delighted to return in 2015 after spotting an advert for volunteers at the Forest Centre.

For many years Gary had taught mechanics and engineering to young people, but he found he was happiest outdoors. After leaving teaching, he discovered that volunteering at Tortworth was, in his words, “knackering but restful”; work that made him feel good. Over the following ten years, he became an invaluable part of both the Tortworth team and the woodland itself. The place quickly became an equally important part of Gary’s life, a focal point for his energy, efforts and talents.

Gary was a natural restorer and recycler. He could often be found bashing bramble, clearing paths or chainsawing fallen trees, and when he wasn’t doing that, he was likely tinkering with old tools or machinery or repurposing materials.   He also drove hundreds of participants and volunteers from urban areas to the woods in our minibus, helping many people access nature who otherwise might not have been able to. Gary was diligent and dedicated, never wanting to miss a day, else others might miss out too.

As well as putting his practical skills to use all over the site, Gary was a keen amateur historian, fascinated by the history of the Ducie family and the Tortworth estate. He led walks and told stories of the arboretum’s past, often with his own creative spin, delighted to entertain visitors.

Gary had a characteristic wry sense of humour, often proudly displayed through his collection of novelty T-shirts.  His mechanical expertise came partly from years of riding motorbikes.  He had a rebellious streak, not always conforming to norms, and liking to do things in his own way.  He was a devoted bookworm always with a novel on the go.

Gary’s contribution to the woods and to our community was immense, and he will always be remembered with great fondness.

We would also welcome your contributions of memories and stories of Gary, which we will add to this blog post below. To contribute please email volunteer@tortwortharboretum.org

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A True Legend and a Great Bloke

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Gary was a constant at Tortworth – part and parcel of it – I don’t recall many times when Gary wasn’t in the woods on one of my many visits. You don’t find many people who are so incredibly committed to a place and the people who inhabit it.

I’ll remember his wonderfully dry sense of humour; his tales of the Ducie family and local area: his pasties (!) and the calm energy he exuded.

Gary will be missed so much. Rest in peace my friend 🧡

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A great leader in the forest. hard working and full of knowledge, will be very much missed.

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Really miss you Gary. It’s not the same without you.

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One of the good guys

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Thanks Gary for all you have done and the skills you have past on.

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It’s the end of an era. I’m so pleased the woods is full of reminders of Gary and his unique character and all he did for Tortworth

This is sad news to process and if you feel you need to reach out for mental health support please consider using one of these helplines:

Samaritans: 116 123
Mindline: 0800 138 1692 or 01823 276 892
NHS 111 – ask for the mental health team

If you or a loved one is affected by cancer the Macmillan Support line offers free confidential support 7 days a week.