Nov 7, 2022
Marvin Davis, south Texas produce vet, dies

Marvin Davis, the founder of Tex-Mex Sales LLC, of Weslaco, died Oct. 31. The longtime produce industry veteran worked other produce companies and founded Tex-Mex, a grower-shipper of onions, vegetables and melons.

Davis, 84, passed peacefully and leaves a legacy of loved ones and experiences, according to the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA). “Marvin mentored many salespeople in the industry and loved working in fresh produce,” according to a news release. “As a long time produce veteran, Marvin leaves behind many friends, longtime employees, protégés and industry colleagues.”

Marvin Davis

Born in 1938 in Detroit, Michigan, his family moved to Phoenix, Arizona, when he was four. He attended the University of Arizona on a baseball scholarship for two years and left to pursue a career in major league baseball with the New York Giants. Following a sports injury, Davis left the MLB and began his career in the produce business. In the early 1960s, Davis entered the produce industry working for Pacific fruit Company, which became the Topco retailer.

In 1964, Davis moved to the Rio Grande Valley to open a field office for Topco. Though he always said he planned his South Texas stay to be temporary, Davis fell in love with the region. After leaving Topco, he worked as a sales manager for the Teddy Bertuca Co. and Bannworth Co.

In 1971, Davis started Tex-Mex Sales, which would operate offices in California, Arizona, Florida and Texas. Although he brokered all commodities, in the early years, Davis’ passion was lettuce, cantaloupes and honeydews. The family-run company was among the largest brokers in the country, according to the TIPA.

Davis’ produce legacy is carried on by his son Michael, granddaughter Kristen and grandchildren. In the 1990s, Michael joined the business and began specializing in growing, packing and shipping onions. In 2016, while attending Texas A&M University, granddaughter Kristen began working for the company during summers and eventually full time. It was one of Davis’ greatest pleasures to be able to mentor his granddaughter. Davis’ joy of working side-by-side with his family was a dream come true, according to TIPA.

Davis will be remembered for his love of family, industry and sports, according to TIPA. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Deitrah; daughter Danielle Melbouci and husband; son Michael and wife; stepson Mark Myatt; eight grandchildren, two sisters along with numerous nieces and nephews. Davis is preceded in death by his parents Saul and Reva Davis.

Funeral services were scheduled for Nov. 7th at Kreidler Funeral Home in McAllen, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions may be made to some of Davis’ favorite causes: Y-TIPA (c/o Texas International Produce Association), 901 Business Park Dr., Ste. 500, Mission, Texas, 78572;Temple Emanuel, 4300 N Chai St., McAllen, Texas,78504; and Palm Valley Animal Shelter, 2501 W Trenton Rd., Edinburg, Texas, 78539.


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