David Wright Davis

September 22, 1935 – November 3, 2025

David Wright Davis, of Heidelberg, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 22, 1935, Dave lived a full and joyful life defined by laughter, friendship, and an uncanny ability to bring people together. A proud graduate of Penn State University, he was a member of the 1955–56 national-championship soccer team — a source of pride that reflected his lifelong team spirit both on and off the field.

For nearly fifty years, Dave was the heart of Wright’s Seafood Inn, where he was the fourth-generation owner and bartender from 1956 to 2004. To generations of patrons, Dave wasn’t just the man behind the bar — he was the friend who remembered your story, your drink, and sometimes your tab. He found the best in both people and beer and made sure that everyone who walked through the doors of Wright’s felt like family.

Dave had a knack for turning ordinary days into occasions. He loved to gather people — whether it was an impromptu cookout, dinner, or a last-minute “everyone will be over in 15” that somehow always turned into a full house. He believed life was better shared: with good food, laughter, and a beer (with pepper, of course).

He was a fierce competitor and ruthless winner in games of skill and chance, whether sledding, backgammon, poker, or his Sunday football pool.  An avid biker, skier, hiker, and — when properly persuaded — kayaker, Dave loved any activity that involved forward motion and fresh air. He cherished every season and the time each brought outdoors — from skiing at Seven Springs to tailgating for Steelers games. A lover of nature, of movement, and of a well-told story, he lived life with momentum and meaning.

Dave’s humor was effortless. He was an accidental comedian, able to make anyone laugh with a quick quip or perfectly timed story. He loved animals (though his hunting success would suggest they loved him more) and had a fondness for the stinkiest cheeses he could find. He was equal parts warmth and wit — quick to offer a toast, a hug, or a seat at the bar.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jan Reilly Davis; his children Karen Mulholland (Toot), Lisa Angle (Kevin), Jill Thomas (Zak), and Paul Davis; his grandchildren Chelsea Rheam (Eric), Jessie Coleman (Joe), Kristen Robertson (Zack), Melanie Lunig (Nick), and Aidan Davis; a sister Mary Alice Norcik (late R. William); and 7 great-grandchildren.

Dave will be remembered for his kindness, quick wit, and the countless lives he touched — from family and friends to the customers who became both. His legacy lives on in every story told, every laugh shared, and every meal enjoyed among friends.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday from 2–7 p.m. at Warchol Funeral Home, Inc., 3060 Washington Pike, Bridgeville, PA (412-221-3333). Additional viewing Friday morning from 10 – 11 am, at which time a service will be held at 11 am at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local food bank, because Dave wouldn’t want to see any family go hungry.

He was loved by everyone — because he loved everyone first. View and add condolences at: www.warcholfuneralhome.com