Barbara J. Davis

Barbara Josephine Davis, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, was born on October 2, 1937, in Kansas City, Missouri to Lucille Elizabeth White and William James White. As an only child, she was deeply cherished by her parents and grandparents, John and Josephine (Murray) Russell, who played a significant role in her upbringing. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, Arville Carrick, Jewell Quick(aunt), and her son, Craig, whose memories she held close to her heart.

Faith was a guiding force in Barbara’s life from the very beginning. She accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized at Friendship Baptist Church, where she was a regular attendee of Sunday school and a dedicated worker in the church. Barbara’s devotion led her to serve as President of the Youth Choir and a member of the Missionary Youth Group, nurturing her spiritual foundation and commitment to service.

Barbara’s educational journey included attendance at RT Coles Junior High School and continued at Lincoln High School, where she graduated in 1955 and went on to attend St. Therese College before getting married and later divorced. She married Walter L. Davis on November 19, 1966, and together, Barbara and Walter raised five children— Murray, Kenny, Lonnie, Sheilahn, and Alania—with unwavering love, building a home grounded in faith, teaching, compassion, and resilience. Their nearly 59 years of marriage stood as a testament to true commitment and unconditional love. 

Barbara was the epitome of a devoted mother and grandmother—selfless, caring, protective, and determined to ensure her family thrived. Her grace, strength, and uplifting spirit touched everyone around her, leaving a legacy that will endure in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. Throughout her life, 

Barbara worked diligently to provide for her family. Her career included positions at the IRS, First National Bank, United Missouri Bank, St. Luke’s Hospital (where she met her beloved husband), and the Russell Stover Candies Corporate Office, where she retired after 29 years of dedicated service. She thoroughly loved retirement, using the time to travel, attend exercise classes at the Community Center, focus on family, and lend a helping hand when and wherever needed. 

Barbara’s spiritual journey led her to convert to Catholicism, becoming a member of Blessed Sacrament Church where she served as a lector and youth leader. After its closing, she joined St. Therese Little Flower Parish, where she faithfully served as a lector and worked with the Repass committee, while always finding ways to support her church community. In 1981, Barbara joined the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, earning a lifetime achievement award. She served as Chairperson of the Scholarship Committee for several years and as a member of the Thanksgiving Basket Committee. 

Barbara leaves behind a loving family to cherish her memory: her devoted husband, Walter Davis; sons, Murray Woodard (Dorine), Kenneth Woodard (Gwendolyn), and Lonnie Woodard; daughters, Sheilahn Davis-Wyatt (Brett) and Alania Davis; grandchildren, Murray Woodard II (Cokethea), Daniel Woodard, Jonathan Moltbia, Maurice Woodard (Kyaira), Marcus Woodard, Kenneth Woodard III (Lynn), Kenie Bell, Stanton Amrine, Brandon Madden, Brittny Coleman (Jahmal), Julio Madden, Evelyn V. Gilmore, Nicholas Liner, Brélahn Wyatt-Nash (Timothy), and Lauren Wyatt; along with numerous great-grandchildren, extended family members, and lifelong friends, especially Janice Dudley. Barbara’s life was a beautiful example of faith, love, and service. Her legacy of kindness, perseverance, grace, and generosity will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege to know and love her