BROTHERS IN HARMONY:
Matthew and Will Davis use their gifts to serve Homewood
“I need to thank my mom because she taught me that God gives everyone talents and gifts to use in service. That’s what I try to do with my community activities.”
~Matthew Davis, ourHOME Member
In a town where community events and church gatherings form the backbone of daily life, two brothers are quietly shaping the soundtrack — and the pictures — of it all. Matthew and Will Davis, both members of the ourHOME community, have turned their talents into acts of service that connect generations and strengthen neighborhood ties.
Matthew, the older of the two, graduated high school in 2013 and has since made a name for himself behind the camera. What began as helping set up the pit percussion section for the Homewood High School band evolved into a steady role photographing the Patriot Band, the Homewood Pops Community Band and a host of local events. “The main thing that I do is give back to the school, church and community that has given so much to me,” he said, describing photography as a way to return a favor to the people who shaped him.
His work extends into his church, the Homewood Church of Christ, where Matthew has participated in Vacation Bible School drama since 2013 and has been taking photos for VBS since 2021. He’s also active with the church’s Young Adult group, joining outings and service projects that keep his focus on community engagement.
For Matthew, growth has come hand-in-hand with his craft. Through years behind the lens he says he’s “expanded my photography abilities,” but the deeper reward is using those skills to celebrate others. A highlight came in 2024 when Matthew photographed his brother Will performing on the marimba with the Homewood Pops Community Band — the first time Will had joined the intergenerational ensemble. “I was so proud of him,” Matthew recalled.
Will, who graduated in 2016, often works alongside Matthew as a “roadie,” helping carry equipment to band events, community celebrations and church programs. He has also been active in his church’s small groups and choirs — making his choir debut at a Christmas service in December 2017. “I was nervous but I did it,” Will said, noting that performing has helped him gain confidence and inspired others to try new things.
A musical spirit runs in the family: both brothers share perfect pitch, and Will’s discovery of the Homewood Pops came after seeing the band perform at his church. Encouraged by familiar faces — including a former classmate and ourHOME Member, William Faust — he took up the marimba and has enjoyed every moment playing with the community ensemble.
Beyond his music, Will serves the youngest members of the community at Homewood Day School, a ministry of Homewood Church of Christ that cares for children from newborn through 4K. His work there — assisting teachers with administrative tasks to free them to teach — has become an important part of his day-to-day service. The school will mark its 50th anniversary in 2026, a milestone Will takes pride in being part of.
Both brothers are quick to acknowledge the people who helped them along the way. Matthew thanked the VBS and Tech Arts teams and Chris Cooper of the Homewood Band for opportunities to photograph; he also credits his mother for teaching him that God gives everyone talents to use in service. Will expressed gratitude to Kevin Kilpatrick, the church’s worship leader, for the chance to sing with the choir.
In a community that thrives on participation, the Davises provide a model of how small gifts — a steady hand with a camera, a willingness to carry equipment, a voice in the choir — can create big ripples. Their story is a reminder that serving others is both a craft and a pathway to growth.