Helgi Davis, owner and founder of Myth Adventures comic book store in McAllen, Tex., died June 29. He was 76. The Monitor reported that since 1991, "the store, located at 720 W. Nolana Ave., has nurtured its cult following through its offerings, Davis's customer service, and play events like Dungeons & Dragons and Pokemon League."
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In 1990 he opened his first business, Edinburg Cards and Comics. "Helgi was so successful with that, that he took over a little gaming shop named Myth Adventures," according to his obituary. "Knowing nothing about comics or gaming, he listened closely to his customers and that’s when he learned the secret of being successful in business. He would say, 'Always listen to your customers!' Customers became fast friends and employees (Carl) became family."
His granddaughter Kali Martinez, who joined the business in 2021, posted on the store's social media sites after his death: "If you ever met Mr. Helgi Davis, you should consider yourself lucky. He was one of a kind and he was brilliant. For over 30 years, Myth Adventures was his passion. He had the time of his life creating this space. He loved the hard work, because it wasn’t work to him. He was crabby and I loved him for it, it was one of the best parts about him.
"He cared deeply for his customers and often went out of his way to make sure they got everything they wanted. He could do more work than five people combined. His mind was sharp. His personality was charismatic, he was enchanting and silly. He pretended he was annoyed to be on camera but he loved it and he was good at it. He forgave easily.... Myth misses you and will never be the same without you but we will try to make you proud."
Kaboom Comics in McAllen posted: "To a great many people here in the Valley, he was their gateway into comics, TCG & D&D. Helgi is and will always be a LEGEND in the pop culture and collecting community in the RGV and beyond."
Last week, Martinez told the Monitor that Spider-Man comics "were among his most treasured reads. She stood solemnly but proudly next to flower arrangements adorning the beloved comic book store Thursday holding a photo of Helgi with Spider-Man creator, the late Stan Lee--the two joined in eternity."
In a post yesterday, Martinez wrote: "This past week Myth said goodbye to the creator of our store. Helgi left his mark on every square inch of the store and he guided us for years. He was the best. A lot of love was shared with him. & So it goes, a lot of love will be dedicated to him going forward. What he made defied expectations and all odds, he was resilient and special. Remember that no matter what you are going through, you don’t have to do it alone. We mourn with you, we heal together. Let your hobbies be a guiding light and help you out of the darkness."