A man of great kindness, love, and spiritual depth, former Claremont Parish Priest Father Wayne Davis’ life was a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to serving God and others.
Born on 16 November 1957, in Orange, New South Wales, to David Thomas Davis and Elsie May Davis, Wayne spent his early years in his hometown, together with his sister Maureen and brother Stephen.
Following the completion of his education, Wayne pursued a career as a pastry chef, starting his apprenticeship at Monty’s Bakery.
His talents in baking were well-known, and he became a beloved figure in his parish, often sharing his culinary gifts with others. Wayne’s baking skills earned him accolades at local shows, where he won several competitions.
In the late 1970s, Wayne moved to the small country town of Girilambone, New South Wales, where he lent a helping hand on a farm and further honed his artistic talents as a drawer and painter.
His drawing skills later became instrumental in his work with Seltrust Mining, where he began a job as a field assistant, office manager, and draftsman in 1980. His mapping abilities were exceptional, and his work took him to various locations, including Kalgoorlie, Western Australia.
It was during his time in Kalgoorlie that Wayne received his calling to the priesthood, a moment that was no surprise to those who knew him well. His family, especially his parents David and Elsie, were immensely proud of his decision to serve God.
Entering the Seminary in Adelaide, South Australia, Wayne remained deeply connected to his family throughout his journey to the priesthood.
Spending some time in Kolkata, India, in 1987, it was there that Wayne met Mother Teresa. The experience in India left a lasting impression on Wayne, learning to see Christ in everyone, whether they were a leper, a beggar, or someone dying in the street.
Wayne was ordained to the priesthood on December 17, 1993, by then Archbishop Barry Hickey, marking the beginning of his dedicated service to the Catholic Church. His first appointment was as Assistant Priest at Spearwood Parish, going on to serve as Parish Priest of Holy Rosary Church, Nedlands Parish, then St Cecilia’s Church, Floreat-Wembley Parish, and later St Thomas the Apostle Church, Claremont Parish.
He also served as Chaplain at the former Living Well HIV/AIDS Pastoral Care Centre, providing spiritual guidance and support to those in need.
In September 2023, Wayne was diagnosed with lymphoma, a diagnosis that came as a shock to his family and friends. However, Wayne faced this challenge with characteristic grace and resilience.
He saw it as another journey, one he was prepared to face with God and his family by his side. In the final weeks of his life, Wayne remained focused on his faith and his loved ones. As he prepared for his passing, he found comfort in the thought of reuniting with his beloved grandmother in heaven, where he imagined himself baking once again in Granny’s kitchen.
Wayne’s passing has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. He was a man of immense kindness, spirituality, and gratitude, always cherishing the blessings of life and the love of his family. His legacy of love and faith will live on in the hearts of all who were gifted with his presence.
Fr Wayne passed away on 11 February 2024, at the age of 66 with a Pontifical Requiem Mass celebrated at St Mary’s Cathedral in Perth on the 21 February, 2024 by Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB.
Father Wayne Davis was truly a soul well-loved and will never be forgotten. He is survived by his sister Maureen and her husband Graeme, as well as his niece Simone (married to James) and nephews Grant (married to Melissa) and Marc (engaged to Madeline). He was a great uncle to Talon Kayley, Aurora and Tate.