Joann Davis

JOANN ESTHER DAVIS

Cedar Rapids

Joann Esther Davis, 87, formally of Cedar Rapids, passed away in Portland, Ore., on Nov. 19, 2017. A memorial service, honoring Joann's life, will be held at 1 p.m. at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018. Inurnment will take place at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.

Joann was a friendly neighbor who loved butterflies, sunflowers, bright clothes and sparkling jewelry, square dancing, Johnny Cash, Tina Turner and decorating for every holiday.

She was born in Shellsburg, Iowa, on March 23, 1930, and lived most of her adult life in Cedar Rapids. She spent her final years with family in Portland, Ore.

Joann was a child of the Great Depression who stepped up at an early age to take on adult responsibilities and help support her family. Her E Avenue home was open to all in her close-knit, working-class neighborhood. She was active in scouting, church, PTA and union activities. She also worked as a school cook and in a pencil factory.

Joann was a devoted Presbyterian. Her open-hearted religious faith guided her in all aspects of her life.

Joann leaves a large and loving extended family, including brothers, George and Kenneth Newton; sister, Karen Higgins; son, Bob Davis; sister-in-law, Martha Jobst; niece, Cheryl Sealine; grandchildren, Stephanie Summers and Mark Yeckel; and great-grandchildren, Harper and Landon Summers.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Anna and Ward Newton; a brother, Leslie Newton; her beloved husband, Donald Davis; and a daughter, Marcia Davis.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local food bank or homeless shelter.

Online condolences may be left at www.cedarmemorial.com under "obituaries."