Kathy Lance is third generation agency owner of LN Davis Insurance Agency. Kathy attended Western Carolina University and started in the agency in 1977. Over the years she has enjoyed working alongside her grandfather, father, and sister, brother-in-law, husband, and most recently her daughter, Merritt. Kathy is the heart and soul of LN Davis and is proud to represent such a strong family heritage.

Kathy is a past president of REACH of Haywood County, Greater Haywood County Chamber of Commerce, Haywood County Schools Foundation Board, and WCU Catamount Club.

Kathy also represents women in leadership by holding the title of first female president of the Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina (IIANC). She follows in her father Paul Lawson Davis’ footsteps who was president of IIANC when she was 4 years old.

In her spare time, Kathy loves being with her grandchildren, going to Hilton Head Island, camping, and attending WCU Catamount Club functions and sporting events.

Fun Fact: Kathy has never met a stranger. She makes friends everywhere she goes.

Gary Lance is originally an Asheville native. He attended Western Carolina University and earned a degree in Industrial Technology and Engineering. During his college career he was a member and Vice President of Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity.  He also met his wife Kathy while in college.

After the birth of their only child, Merritt, Gary joined Kathy in the family agency, where he has spent most of his career.

When Gary isn’t working, he can be found on the golf course, fishing, or attending Western Carolina University sporting games.

Gary’s accomplishments include board member of Downtown Waynesville Association, WCU Catamount Club, Past President of the Haywood Athletic Club, past race director of the Maggie Valley Moonlight Race, and past member of the Waynesville Rotary Club.

Fun Fact: Gary was Paws for a WCU Basketball Game in January of 1991. We have photographed proof.

Merritt Tongen graduated from NC State with degrees in Social Work, Spanish, and Nonprofit Studies. After 8 years working for Auto-Owners Insurance Company, she and her husband Mark came back to Waynesville to raise their family. As a fourth-generation owner at LN Davis Insurance, Merritt loves helping everyone with their insurance needs.

In her spare time, Merritt can be found chasing her three kids in the garden, collecting eggs from her beloved chickens, or tending to her many other animals and plants.

Merritt is heavily involved in her community as she is presently on the Haywood County Schools Foundation Board (HCSFB), a liaison between HCSFB and the Big T Booster Club, Ambassador for the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce, and Board Member for Haywood Pathways.

She follows in her mother and grandfather's steps with her involvement in the Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina as well. She is presently Chairwoman of the iLead Young Agents Committee as well as a member of the Womens IA Networking Committee (WIN).  

Fun Fact: Merritt can ride a unicycle, juggle, and walk on stilts. Clearly, she should have been in the circus.

A Waynesville native with a worldly perspective, Brian Lanning combines deep local knowledge with an appreciation for global experiences. When he’s not helping clients at L.N. Davis Insurance Agency, Brian can often be found enjoying a relaxing cruise or exploring far-off destinations—Hawaii being his favorite port of call so far.

Brian’s love of music and giving back is reflected in his involvement in events like the Concert for the Carolinas, a benefit concert in Charlotte, NC, for victims of Hurricane Helene.

Before joining L.N. Davis Insurance Agency, Brian built a diverse career across multiple industries. He spent several years working in the legal field, had a significant tenure at the BMW Group, and gained valuable experience in the hospitality industry and with 9-1-1 services and local law enforcement agencies, where he developed a strong sense of service and quick decision-making skills.

With this unique blend of professional backgrounds, Brian approaches each day with a commitment to excellence and a passion for helping clients protect what matters most.

Kristy was born and raised in Pennsylvania and moved to North Carolina after she married her WNC native husband, Tim. They have three adult children and two crazy husky/shepherds.

Kristy has seven years of experience in the industry, specializing in commercial insurance. Her passion for the insurance industry comes from knowing that she can protect people, their families, and their assets. Kristy is a go-getter and doesn’t like to take no for an answer. She will work to find you the best coverage and pricing for your needs.

Fun Fact: Kristy was a corrections officer for 2.5 years.