Donna Ann Davis

Donna Ann (Anderson) Davis, 69, of St. James Plantation, Southport, NC entered her eternal home on October 11, 2023. It is with heavy hearts that we share her quick passing from pancreatic and liver cancer, at the SECU Hospice House of Brunswick, Lower Cape Fear in Bolivia, NC. Her time there was filled with tranquility and peace, free from pain.

For those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with Donna, a lifelong friend was made. Her kindness, radiant warmth, good-naturedness, and contagious spirit left a permanent mark on the hearts of those within St. James and the surrounding communities. She had endless energy and many talents. She actively participated in Saint Peter Lutheran Evangelical church events, The Artisans on Howe St., Barn and Beach Designs, OKI Sea Turtle Protection Program, Pin Pals Bowling league, NC State Senior Games annual cheerleading competitions, St. James Fire Department semi-annual fundraisers, beach time with kids and grandkids, and an annual trip or two to a national park.

Donna was born on May 23, 1954, in New York City at Saint Vincent’s hospital. As the oldest of seven she was extraordinarily helpful to her mother as the family followed her father’s marine career from San Diego, CA, to Hawaii, and finally to Quantico, VA. Following Quantico, VA the family planted roots in Peekskill, New York. She received her BS degree in Physical Education from Southern Connecticut College and her MS degree in Human Resources Management from Troy State University. Accompanying her husband’s 28-year Army career, she taught school at nearly every level from elementary school through graduate studies. She retired from teaching in 2013 in Fairfax County, VA and moved to St. James in 2014.

As a former US history middle school teacher, Donna delighted in sharing stories of Chief Joseph, the valiant leader of the Nez Perce nation, and his historic stand against the US government, with her students. She held his surrender speech dear: “From where the sun now stands, I will fight no more forever.” It is beautifully fitting that she, too, now rests from her battles and will “fight no more forever”.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Kirk; son Matthew and wife Megan of Raleigh, NC; son Michael and wife Lauren of Tega Cay, SC; and four grandkids, Hudson, Allison, Finley, and Amelia with whom she loved collecting seashells, bowling and eating ice cream; and two grand dogs, Lucy, and Winston. In a reciprocal fashion from her childhood, Donna was blessed with comfort and support from her remaining siblings Mary, Joanie, Janie, BJ, and Kevin.

Donna’s deep and abiding connection with God was a wellspring of strength and solace throughout her life. She now rests in His embrace, knowing eternal peace.

A funeral mass will be held at 1:00 PM on November 18, 2023, at Saint Peter Lutheran Evangelical Church on Rte. 211, Southport, NC. Inurnment will follow at the church. A Celebration of Life will follow at the St. James Community Center from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. Your presence will be a source of comfort during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Donna A. Davis Scholarship Fund by mailing to SUFA (Stepping Up for the Arts), 114 S. Howe St. Southport, NC 28461, or SECU Hospice House of Brunswick, Lower Cape Fear Hospice Care Center at https://lifecare.org.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com for the Davis and Anderson families.

Peacock – Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.