Patricia Davis

Lavonne Davis COKER - Lavonne was born in Ft. Bragg, N.C. and her early years were filled with travel as the daughter of a Military Family and, in particular, she had many fond memories of a two year stint in Germany as a youngster, where her loving brother, Michael, joined their family. She later attended Fayette County High School where she was a cheerleader and dear friend to many. It was during those high school years that she met Gene Davis and became the love of his life. She was his loving and adoring wife for the next fifty five plus years. Together they raised their three beloved children. Among Lavonne's many gifts, motherhood was one of the most outstanding and her constant influence on her children has become forever evidenced in their many accomplishments. She took great pride in the achievements of each of her children and influenced them in all areas of their growth and development. Her oldest child, Melanie, was Lavonne's ""little firecracker"" born on the 4th of July. She was a source of great pride as a successful ball player throughout her childhood, high school and collegiate careers and later went on to coach successfully for 30 years, including NCAA Division 1 Level with over 900 wins. She was a leader/teacher and mentor to many young people and was ultimately inducted into numerous Hall of Fames for her contributions and achievements throughout her career. She also inherited the love of gardening, especially the beautiful gardens they both enjoyed together. Both her sons were musically gifted and used their talents to enrich their lives and the lives of those around them. Todd was the tenor in the Freed-Hardeman College quartet, The Hardeman Boys throughout his college career. The group performed throughout the United States and published their own CD's. Josh still amazes loyal listeners today with his mastery of virtually all genres of music. Josh sings as well as cooks, which is another gift from his mother. She was especially proud of the success of Josh and his wife, Mari Frances, as they built and now grow Here Kitty Kitty Fish Company and Restaurant, known for their fish, steaks, and southern hospitality. The tradition for their cuisine also reflects his mother's mastery of cooking. Their home grown vegetables also reflect a Davis family tradition of gardening throughout their lives. Todd was also known as the ""Tailgating Champion"" of the University of Alabama. He readily credited his vast knowledge of cooking to his mother. Lavonne saw beauty in everything around her especially nature and the little, simple things in life. Of particular importance, was her love of dogs including her beloved Disney and Hershey. She was enthusiastic about the world around her and could not wait to start each new day and make the most of each opportunity. She was driven, determined, caring and compassionate. She loved life and everyone around her. She retired from the Tuscaloosa County School System as a Master Cook, Child Nutritionist and Lunchroom Manager. She was also a founding member of the C. Todd Davis Memorial Endowed Scholarship which is awarded annually to multiple natives of Tuscaloosa County who attend the University of Alabama. Lavonne was a faithful and dedicated member of the Mayfield Church of Christ where she served as leader of the Weekly Ladies Bible Study Class. Gene and Lavonne did virtually everything together as they raised their family. They built a working farm where the children learned their parent's love for the land as well as their work ethic. Their precious love for one another was an inspiration to everyone they knew, especially their children. She was a magnificent woman who will be greatly missed by friends and family around the entire world. Pallbearers will be Edward Gilpin, Donald Gilpin, Clovis (Cotton) Box, Jim Merryman, Charles Porter, Steve Porter, Copeland Nabors, Mark Lawrence, Tommy Mills and Don Allen. Honorary pallbearers are Roy and special Aunt Nona Crowder, loving cousin Willie Boozer, Here Kitty Kitty Fish Co. and employees, special friends, Sharon O'Mara and Marty Maston, Dr. Ben Lucy, Dr. Bob Grubbs, Hospice of West Alabama nurses and staff, Mayfield Church of Christ members, Westwood Elementary retired lunchroom staff, Westwood Elementary and loving cousins, Miranda Moore and Christie Suarez. Services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, June 30, 2016, at Magnolia Chapel Funeral Home North. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park with Magnolia Chapel Funeral Home North directing. Visitation will be from 12:30 to 2 p.m. prior to services at the funeral home.