Comment
Print
Mary Anne Gillis Davis, age 76, died peacefully at home in Forest City on February 15, 2016.
She was born on May 11, 1939, in Selma, Alabama to Daniel Harvey Gillis and WIllie Wilson Gillis.
Mary Anne is survived by her loving husband, William "Bill" Davis of 55 years; her brother, Daniel Harvey Gillis, Jr. with his wife Nancy Lou of Alabaster, AL; her two sons, Dr. Keith Davis of Pinehurst with his wife Laurie Weston Davis and York Davis of Chapel Hill with his wife, Kim Hunt Davis. Mary Anne is also survived by her four grandchildren who will miss her cooking.
Mary Anne graduated from Auburn University in December 1961 with a degree in English Journalism. She was a member of Chi Omega sorority and became a Sigma Chi sweetheart candidate where she caught the eye of Bill. In college, she enjoyed playing volleyball and basketball. She later obtained her teaching credentials from Gardner-Webb. She moved to Forest City with her family in 1969. She had a lifelong dedication to education teaching English and History for 28 years. Mary Anne served as a mentor for the Robert and Janice McNair Educational Foundation and was an active member of the Forest City Pilot Club and was chosen 2012-2013 Member of the Year. She enjoyed playing bridge with her friends, daily crossword puzzles, storytelling, performing in Pilot Club puppet shows, reading and traveling. She was an ardent Auburn Tiger and a UNC Tar Heel fan. She and Bill have been active members of the First United Methodist Church in Forest City for over 40 years.
A Memorial service was held in the First United Methodist Church of Forest City with Reverend Dr. J. O'Neil Haynes officiating. Inurnment will be for the immediate family in the church columbarium.
Mary Anne's family would like to thank the community she loved so much and her very dear friends for the love, support and prayers they received throughout her illness, especially in her final days.
In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Hospice of Rutherford County, Post Office Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043 or the First United Methodist Church, Forest City, NC 341 East Main Street, Forest City 28043.
The Padgett and King Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.
