Mary Magdalene Davis

Mary Magdalene (Wright) Davis was born on February 12, 1940, in Jacksonville, Florida (Garden City), to the late Mr. Edward Wright and Johnnie Roxie Scott. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Rosa McClain, and her paternal grandfather, John Scott who helped lay the foundation of her faith and family values.

Mary was the sixth of nine children born into the Wright family. She was preceded in death by her cherished siblings Lloyd Wright (Lee), Willie Wright, Hamilton Wright, and Joe Lewis Wright, whose memories she carried with her throughout her life.

Mary completed her formal education in the Duval County Public School System and, in pursuit of lifelong learning, earned her General Educational Development (GED) diploma from Florida State College at Jacksonville.

At an early age, Mary accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and united with Mt. Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. She remained a faithful and devoted servant of the church throughout her life. Mary rendered dedicated service through Usher Board No. 2, the Singles Ministry, Welcome Committee, SAT Choir Support Group, Victorious Women Ministry, District No. 5 under the leadership of Deacon Anthony Davis, and the Golden Fellowship Worshipers.

Mary was united in holy matrimony to Bennie Davis, Sr., and from this blessed union, six children were born. She was later preceded in death by her husband, Bennie Davis, Sr., and her son, Arthur Davis, Sr.

Mary devoted 30 years of faithful service to Shaw’s Southern Bell Frozen Foods, where she held a managerial role until her retirement. She was widely respected and cherished throughout the community for her generosity, hospitality, and unwavering compassion. Her life was marked by a spirit of service, and she devoted much of her time to caring for and providing for members of her community.

Mary possessed many gifts and talents. She was an accomplished athlete who excelled in softball, bowling, horseshoes, and cornhole, and she proudly held the distinction of being a champion bowler. She also found great joy in gardening, baking, cooking, sewing, knitting, and sharing laughter through comedy.

Endowed with grace and dignity, Mary was admired for her impeccable sense of style and refined taste. Her beautifully adorned and fashionable hats were a signature expression of the crown of honor she wore daily reflecting the Scripture that declares, “Strength and honor are her clothing” (Proverbs 31:25). In all she did, Mary carried herself with humility, elegance, and a God-given grace that left a lasting impression on all who encountered her.

Mary’s gentle and soft-spoken spirit, combined with her warm sense of humor, left a lasting impression on all who were blessed to know her. Her life was a reflection of love, service, and grace.

Mary shared a special friendship with Deacon Willie Curry who preceded her in death. Their bond was a meaningful part of her life and brought joy and companionship in later years.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories her loving children, Louise Alston, Gladys Session, Bennie Davis, Jr. (Deborah), Deborah Mathis (Larry), Eileen Gresham, Sotonya Wells (Darrell) and Anthony Davis, Sr. (Iris). She also leaves a cherished bonus daughter, Sharon Masline (David), and a beloved goddaughter, Mekyah Reed.

Mary is further survived by sixteen grandchildren; a host of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; her siblings, Eddie Wright (Catherine), Shirley Hinson, Gloria Roberts, and Elouis Randall; special sisters, Gloria Bryant, Gwendolyn Rivers and Cheryl Brantley; her adopted family, the Maslines; devoted friends, George and Linda Parker, Paytie Cross, Gloria Hubbard, and Laura and Johnny Smith; along with other relatives including Clarissa Thomas, Charisse Thomas, and Charlene Ratcliffe; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

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