Theresa Edwards Davis, age 89, the only child of Samantha (Shockley) and Alvin Edwards, born August 28, 1931, in Griffin, GA, passed away at her home on December 11, 2020 after a long yet graceful battle with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a progressive lung disease. She never smoked a day in her life. Theresa married her lifelong sweetheart, John Phil Davis, Jr. on December 18, 1949 and their love grew stronger every day. He predeceased her on October 24, 2012. Theresa and John fell in love at first sight and she supported him throughout his 42-year career at Delta Airlines. They and their family and friends traveled the world together.

She will be greatly missed and forever adored by her four daughters, Cindy Gleason and her husband Jim, Cathy Davis, Caren Davis, Cheryl Curtis and partner Jeff Heyer; grandson Laramie Lewis and his children, Hailey and Shawn and Shawn’s wife Meagan; grandson Kyle Lewis and wife Julie and their sons, Austin, Tristan, and Lukas and Tristan’s fiancé Brianne Bradberry; grandson Jeff Truitt and wife Amber and their children Evan, Sarah, John Matthew, and Jake; granddaughter Keri Bethea and husband Luke, and their children Caleb, Samantha, Noah, Jonah, and Ellie; and “adopted” grandkids Justin, Annalee, Joey, and Brayden Heyer.

Theresa was loved dearly by many nieces, nephews and cousins, an admired and revered relative throughout her extended family. Although an only child, her impact was far and wide among family members and friends. She will also be sorely missed by her two best girlfriends Van D’Amico and Kay Anglin, with whom she shared a special bond over more than six decades.

Her family is forever grateful to her kind caregivers and Southern Grace Hospice for making her last days as comfortable as possible. We believe the best way to tell Mom’s life story is to share some of the things she taught us over the years.

Our mom taught us that family is the most important thing in life and to love one another and show it through words and deeds. She called everyone “Dollin” (darling) in her sweet Southern way.

Our mom taught us that holidays are special. We remember the anticipation on Christmas morning waiting outside the living room door. Waiting with so much excitement to see the magical display Santa had left for us. That tradition was carried on to Mom’s grandkids as Christmas Eve and morning were always celebrated with a family sleepover at Mimi and Pops’ house. Our Mom made sure the Easter Bunny visited us girls even when we were grown and into our 30s. And she always made birthdays special, with a delicious meal, gifts, and togetherness. We know this doesn’t happen in all families. We’re just blessed to be in this family. With this Mom.

Our Mom taught us that nature is miraculous. She had a green thumb (inherited from her grandmother) and loved every kind of plant and flower. She enthusiastically watched dozens of bird species in her back yard, from hawks to purple finches. She was a friend to all animals, especially her best friend and protector, Molly Claire, the 8-pound Shih Tzu who barely left Mom’s side for the past three years. Molly Claire will protect Caren now.

Our Mom taught us to see the world. She and Dad took us to places near and far. Mother-daughter trips to Arizona, San Diego, and beyond. Family trips to Europe, Bermuda, Hawaii, and more. She explored the planet with her girlfriends, taking day trips to Pennsylvania to shop the outlets and navigating all the way to Germany, Ireland, and Asia for even more exotic finds. Her favorite trip was an African safari with Dad.

Our Mom taught us independence. Even in her mid-80s, she drove two hours alone to her beautiful cabin on the Ellijay River and enjoyed the solitude for a week or two at a time. Always with a 9:30 p.m. check in call so we knew she was safe and sound.

Our mom taught us to be frugal. She always carefully watched expenses and loved bargains, but that didn’t keep her from having attractive clothes and a beautiful home, always warm and welcoming to guests and family.

Our mom taught us generosity. Countless times, she and Dad provided meals, gifts, loans, and kindness to so many, never expecting anything in return. They lived by the saying…to whom much is given, much is expected. They were blessed and always shared with others. While it’s true they have been very blessed, they also earned their success. Dad grew up in a home with no plumbing or electricity. When he began his career, Mom and Dad had little, and through working hard together, they built a very comfortable home and lifestyle.

Our Mom taught us that she missed us when we were away. She taught us that even though we think we’re strong, independent and invincible, she’s still going to tell us to be careful going home. And she’s going to worry until she knows we’re in safely. Whether we’re going two miles or 1,400.

Our mom taught us that you cook something “until it’s done,” she would always say with a grin whenever we asked for instructions.

Our mom taught us that moms and daughters can be great friends. She was not shy about saying I love you and she not only said it but she showed it. Every day. She always had our backs, supported our dreams, and wanted the very best for us. She taught us that big hugs are one of the best gifts on Earth.

Our mom taught us not to say bad words. Or at least she tried. She taught us that it’s okay to have a drink, but to practice moderation.

Our Mom taught us it’s fun to laugh. Not one to tell jokes, but she certainly enjoyed humor, sometimes dissolving into an uncontrollable “giggle fit.”

Our mom taught us it’s okay to wear sandals in the winter. Even without socks. Her personal favorite was Birkenstocks. She wasn’t a hippie, she just thought they were comfortable. She did admit to being a bit of a gypsy, with her love of dangly jewelry and colorful flowy clothes. And her attraction to feather boas made her joke that perhaps she was a madame in a past life. We seriously doubt that, given her purity of heart and mind.

Our mom taught us that being thoughtful and making other people feel special is one of the most rewarding things in life. She’s known for quietly sneaking a card into mailboxes on her neighbors’ birthdays. Many of her neighbors told us she’s their favorite person in the community.

Our mom taught us that love is everlasting. She remained forever head-over-heels for our Dad and they created an amazing partnership together. She has said many times that she’d love to press the restart button and do it all over again. Exactly the same. Wouldn’t change a thing. Now that’s a life well-lived. No regrets, full of joy. An example to follow. How very happy they are to be reunited! Giving thanks to God today and every day for blessing us with our precious Mom/Mimi who taught us so much.

Those who wish may remember Theresa by making a contribution to Christian City www.christiancity.org.