Obituary - Nancy Jones Davis
Nancy J. Davis
November 28, 1938 - October 18, 2018
Kinston - Nancy Jones Davis, 79, of Kinston, completed her earthly journey on Thursday, October 18, 2018. Nancy was born November 28, 1938 in Lenoir County to the late Carlton Jones and Doris Cauley Jones. From a very young age, Nancy was raised by Horace and Marie Whitfield who also preceded her in death.
A graduate of Atlantic Christian College, Nancy began her career in education in Johnston County. After two years, she moved on to Lenoir County where she retired after 36 years of faithful service. Her time in Lenoir County was divided amongst Contentnea, Moss Hill, and Woodington schools. For 38 years she worked diligently to meet the needs of her students. When Nancy wasn’t in her own classroom, she could usually be found supporting her husband’s work at South Lenoir High. She was always in attendance at school sporting events and fed many a meal to the athletes and students over the years. Nancy’s devotion to and love of education and children carried such an influence that each of her three daughters and two of her granddaughters became teachers as well.
With Nancy, everything had to be perfect. She was determined that all she did would be done to the best of her ability. She was always the “manager” of things, and her commitment to excellence was ever evident. When Nancy was no longer physically able to be involved in activities and events, she became the ultimate supervisor. A good steward of time and resources, she often told her children and grandchildren to “always have a little cash in your wallet.” She always said that “if it’s going to be cold outside, be sure to have shoes, socks, and a nice warm coat.”
Nancy’s happy place was her home at the beach. All of life’s cares seemed to melt away as she sat in her chair on the porch or underneath her favorite shade tree. Nancy found pleasure in tending her yard, giving special attention to her flowers. She loved being in her garden and would fill her pantry with the various foods she canned. In regard to food, no one fried chicken any better than Nancy. Her family holds close the precious memories made sitting around her dinner table.
Nancy’s greatest accomplishment and treasure was her family. As a wife, she cared for her husband and supported him throughout his career. Bobby and Nancy were high school sweethearts, and she loved the life they built together. Nothing was better to Nancy than spending time with her “girls.” With three daughters and three granddaughters, Nancy’s hands were always full with sports, dance recitals, and family events. Wonderful times were had during their summer family vacations and holiday outings. Some of the girls’ most treasured memories were those made with Nancy at Christmas. The world seemed to stand still when they were in the kitchen baking sausage balls and Christmas candy or painting ceramic Santas. The annual Christmas trip was something that was looked forward to throughout the year. The warmth of Nancy’s love for her family will continue to be felt in their hearts for all of time and eternity.
A service to celebrate Nancy’s life will be held Sunday, October 21, 2018 at 3 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home. Burial will be Monday at 1 p.m. at Pinelawn Memorial Park.
Nancy is survived by her husband of 61 years, Bobby Davis; three daughters, Mellany Davis, Mia Heath and husband, Jamie, and Millicent Sanderson and husband, Petey; three precious granddaughters, Allyson, Meredith and Macy; her grandpuppy, Rudy; and a number of nieces, nephews and special family friends. In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by a son, Marty Davis; and two brothers, James T. “Jimmy” Jones and George Allen Jones.
Family and friends will be received Sunday following the service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Memorials may be made to Holy Innocents Episcopal Church, 6861 Highway 55 West, Seven Springs, NC 28578. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
