Marvin William Savage

Marvin William Savage, 91, passed away on April 21.

Marvin Savage led an exciting and full life filled with adventure, service, friendship, and generosity. Born on a farm in Brock, Marvin grew up in a family that lived off the land and ate what they raised. During World War II, he took over responsibilities on the farm while his brother was away serving in the military. When his brother returned home, Marvin was proudly given $100 for bringing in the crops and driving the peanut combine — a moment he always remembered with pride. With this 100, Marvin purchased a GA Holland rifle from Gibson’s. The rifle and the memories attached to it were later donated to the Doss Center, preserving a treasured piece of his story.

Inspired to serve his country, Marvin joined the military and later used his VA education benefits to complete pilot training. Flying became one of his lifelong passions. He eventually purchased his own airplane and often flew family, friends, and even a promising young rodeo star to events across the PBR Circuit.

During the summers, Marvin played softball with the University Baptist Church team alongside friends Jeff Murphy, Ted Bandy, and Eddie Laney. Together they won many trophies, but more importantly formed friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Marvin was deeply involved in charitable work throughout his life. As a member of the Optimist Club, he helped raise funds by selling Christmas trees and volunteered in disaster relief efforts by loading trailers with food and delivering supplies to families in need. Marvin's compassion for history led him to volunteer at the Doss Heritage and Culture Center, A Texas History Museum. Here Marvin continued to give back to his local community by working many of the center’s public events. Helping to educate and entertain local families and children building lifelong relationships.

His love for theater and music was contagious. Marvin traveled the world attending theatrical productions and enjoyed music ranging from the big band to Willie Nelson.

Racing was another lifelong passion. Marvin was known for his remarkable talent in boat racing during the 1970s, where his carefully designed race boat hulls and record-setting motors made him nearly unbeatable on the water for years. He was once offered a position designing boats for Cole Boats, but remained loyal to his longtime friend David McDavid, continuing to work alongside him until David’s retirement.

Marvin also loved automobile racing. He once placed his record-winning motor into Eddy Hill’s race car. Recalling the moment at the racetrack, Marvin laughed and said, “He’s scared of that motor,” knowing firsthand the power behind the engine that had won him so many records.

Always encouraging others, Marvin inspired a new generation of boat racers. His work extended beyond racing into business and community development. He helped form Greenwood Farms and Marvin Savage Farms by joining neighboring farms together. The equestrian facilities became widely respected, featuring professionally designed courses and jumps that Marvin helped personally build by hand.

He was also a dedicated supporter of the Brock Girls Basketball program. Marvin and his brother Leroy had a commitment to support the Brock girls’ basketball games. By being avid fans attending many home games for over 50 years.

Professionally, Marvin soared in the sale of GM parts throughout the southern United States while working for David McDavid. Yet no matter how successful he became, he remained known for his kindness and willingness to help others. He was the man many called when they had car trouble, needed guidance, or simply needed someone they could count on.

Through both work and play, Marvin built friendships that lasted a lifetime. How he managed to fit so much life, generosity, talent, and adventure into 91 years is something few will ever fully understand...

We know, because we lived it beside him.

This is our gift — the memories and love that can never be taken away.

Thank you, Marvin, for inspiring us all.

With love,

Your family,

Survived By

Melinde Manire, Angela Stanley, Ken Slade, Don Slade, Hershall Slade, Cherie Wilkerson, and Donna Lothridge.

Preceded in Death By

Mother, father, James William Savage, Idella Savage,

Brothers, Lloyd Savage, Leroy Savage,

Sisters, Lorene, Fleta, Ruby, Melba, and Wesley Savage.

*The family thanks the Doss Heritage and Culture Center for their ever loving kindness and support.