A. Davis Mead III

Arimstead Davis Mead III passed away peacefully at his home in Rotonda West, Florida, on June 12, 2026. He was 83 years old.

Born in Wheeling, West Virginia, on August 20, 1942, Davis was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles P. Mead. A 1963 graduate of The Linsly School, he attended Bethany College before serving in the United States Marine Corps.

Following his military service, Davis built a remarkable career in hospitality spanning more than five decades. After working in New York City and Vermont, he made Saratoga Springs his home, where he became a driving force in the city’s restaurant and entertainment community. In the 1970s, he was an original partner and owner of the Tin & Lint, later opened Gaffney’s with his former wife and friend, Roxanne Mead, and helped establish the Caroline Street Block Party to raise money for the upkeep and street lighting on Caroline Street. In 1983, he and partners opened Siro’s Restaurant, transforming it into one of Saratoga’s most celebrated dining destinations and creating “The Yard”, a popular gathering place for live entertainment and post-race celebrations.

Davis, as stated on his calling card, simply had his full name, then below, the term “Raconteur”. He will be fondly remembered as an unforgettable storyteller and for his warmth, tremendous sense of humor, and quick wit. He had the privilege of working with many restaurant professionals from around the country, whom he later referred to as friends and family. In recent years, he enjoyed life in Florida, where he spent time with close friends and continued sharing his stories, humor, and warmth that defined him. Davis held on to this warmth and humor until his final days.

Davis is survived by his stepchildren, Wendy A. Krotow (Michael) and Jason Thorud, both of Saratoga Springs; his sister, Mary Mead Utt of Roanoke, Virginia; his brother Robert C. Mead (Amy) of Wheeling, West Virginia; his sister-in-law, Mary Jane Mead of Charlottesville, Virginia; his forher wife and dear friend; Roxanne Mead; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved grandchildren, Jack, Anna, Laurin, Kara, and Ellie, who knew him simply as “Pops”.

He was predeceased by his son and best friend, Arimstead D. Mead IV (“Adam”), and his brother, Charles P. Mead Jr.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his caregiver, Diane Capoferi; his dear friend, German Beltran; and the nurses and staff of Tidewell Hospice for their compassionate care.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for August 4th at the Hi-Note from 3 pm to 6 pm in Saratoga Springs, NY. Davis will later be honored privately by his family and laid to rest along with his son in Greenwood Cemetery in Wheeling, West Virginia.