Marvin William Savage

Marvin William Savage, 91, of Weatherford, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. He was buried in the family plot in Brock Texas.

Memorial Service:  2 p.m. Friday, May 22, 2026 at The Doss Heritage and Cultural Center, 1400 Texas Drive, Weatherford, 76086.

Marvin was born on July 8, 1934, at home in Brock Texas. Son of James William and Susan Idella (Jones) Savage. He proudly served in the United States Army. Prior to his service he was a farmer and rancher with his brothers.

Marvin was a dedicated and loyal parts manager for David McDavid for over 30 years for the entire Southwest area. He was a GM Parts Board Member for 7 years.

Marvin was a legendary Blown Fuel Flat Bottom Drag boat driver with his “Wild Child” boat in the 1970s and 1980s. He was known for high-speed runs, including speeds of 163-168 mph in 1983. Many of his records were retired as unbeatable. He inspired many new generations of boat racers.

His accomplishments included:

NDBA National High Points championship in 1978

Unblown Fuel Flat (UFF) class at the Aqua Fest in Austin TX in 1975

Founding member Southern Drag Boat Association (SDBA)

Inducted into the drag boat Hall of Fame in 2021

Marvin’s enjoyment for speed led him to the air as he completed pilot training. He shared this talent flying family, friends and young rodeo stars to rodeo events.

Marvin devoted decades to the equestrian community. Joining Greenwood farms and Marvin Savage farms together, which became widely known as a premier equestrian facility renowned for hosting USEA-sanctioned spring and fall horse trials. The farm was a hub for three-day events an equestrian triathlon featuring dressage, cross-country, and show jumping.

He earned numerous honors including:

Governor’s cup award - US Eventing Association 2013

Dr. Glynis Roth Memorial Award - Area V young Riders

Al Smith award - North Texas Eventing Association 2026

U.S. Eventing Association Safety Committee Member

Marvin and his brother Leroy had a passion for supporting the Brock girls basketball games by being avid fans attending many home games for over 50 years.

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.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; his four sisters, Lorene, Fleta, Ruby, and Melba; and two brothers, Lloyd, and Leroy.

Marvin was survived by Melinde Manire, Angelea Stanley, Ken Slade, Don Slade, Hershel Slade, Cherie Wilkerson and Donna Lothridge.