Ronald Frederick Davies, known to all who loved him as Ron, passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at the age of 94, in Albany, New York. Ron lived a full and remarkable life, and those who knew him will remember his dry British wit, his unwavering determination, and the warmth he brought to every room he entered.

Ron was born on September 11, 1932 in London, England, the son of the late James Frederick Davies and Gladys May Bromham. He came of age in a world reshaped by war, and rose to meet its challenges with courage. He served as a pilot for the Royal Air Force, a chapter of his life that spoke to his steady nerve and his sense of duty. Ron went on to study at Jesus College, Cambridge University, where he earned his Master’s degree in Chemistry, which set the foundation for a career built on vision and hard work.

A gifted entrepreneur, Ron co-founded Colonial Metals and later co-founded Ames Goldsmith, where he served as Chairman of the Board of Ames Goldsmith Corporation and its family of companies, including Pyromet, AAMC, Argentum, Ceimig, AGAP, and AGUK. He also was heavily involved with the International Precious Metals Institute (IPMI) on several committees. At the IPMI, he was a Foundation Board member and also established the Ames Goldsmith Endowment. Ron’s commitment was also recognised by the IPMI in 2025 when he became the recipient of the Jun-ichiro Tanaka Distinguished Achievement Award.

In Ron’s honor and love for the students and steadfast support for education we are pleased to announce that the IPMI Premier Student Award will now be called: Ron Davies IPMI Premier Student Award.

His determination and his tireless follow-through on every project he took on earned him the respect of colleagues and partners across the industry. Ron never left a task half finished, and his handshake meant something.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ron found great joy on the golf course and on the water. He loved sailing and boating, pursuits that suited his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for a fine afternoon spent well. His sense of humor – quick and understated in the very best Welsh tradition – was a gift to everyone fortunate enough to share his company. Only two weeks before his passing, he was heading to the golf course to hit a bucket of balls – something many of us will not be able to say. He was a good golfer and as he aged, was often able to “shoot his age.” He truly squeezed the most out of life every day.

Ron gave generously of his time and talents to the communities he called home. He served faithfully as a deacon at the Presbyterian Church of Elkton, Maryland, and was a very involved member of the local Lions Club. He served on the Glens Falls Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, lending his good judgment and his heart to causes larger than himself. Ron also was involved in the Glens Falls Hyde Museum and a sponsor of traveling art. It also was a great honor to be a long-time member of the St. Radegund Society at Jesus College, Cambridge University.

Ron carried his faith quietly and sincerely, and it guided him in his service to others and in the way he treated those around him. Those who knew him will find comfort in the belief that he has now been reunited with Valerie and Heather, and that he rests in peace after a life well and fully lived.

Ron’s family is grateful for the many lives he touched and for the friendships he cultivated across continents and across the years. His humor, his determination, and his generous spirit will be deeply missed and long remembered.