Karen Leah Davis, a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and true friend, passed away on November 11, 2023, in Jacksonville, Florida, at the age of 86. Born on June 7, 1937, in Shawnee, Oklahoma, to Ishmael Theodore Jones and Dorothy Faye Abraham Jones, Karen’s life was a testament to love, faith, and service. Karen’s parents were devoted to their two daughters, filling their lives with opportunity and adventure. The Jones sisters were enrolled in every kind of dance class available, leading Karen to perform her way through high school, ultimately being crowned as Miss Will Rogers her senior year. The devotion she learned from her parents became Karen’s trademark as she lived the rest of her years epitomizing the definition of love, loyalty, and unbridled enthusiasm for others. Karen attended Oklahoma University, where she met Charles W. Davis, Jr., whom she married at 19. She accepted Jesus during their first year of marriage and completely gave her life to Him. Karen thrived as her husband’s pastoral journey, and role as a Christian college President, allowed her to nurture the spiritual growth of their church communities. Since 1981, her family has been actively involved in Trinity Baptist Church, where she leaves behind a legacy of profound friendships and a genuine commitment to helping others know Christ. Known for her artistic creativity, Karen’s puppet shows brought the Bible to life for countless children, leaving a lasting impact on their faith. Her caring nature knew no bounds; she welcomed stray animals and people in need, offering them a seat at her table or delivering meals to their own. Karen’s devotion lives on in the hearts of her family. As a mother, she was determined to instill a love for Jesus in her children, emphasizing not only scripture but also the importance of compassion. To her grandchildren, she was nothing short of magical – a source of joy, encouragement, and unwavering support. Karen is survived by her husband, Charles W. Davis Jr., and her 5 children: Lisa Davis Messer, husband Tom, Charles W. (Chuck) Davis II, Timothy Davis, wife Lisa, Stephen Davis, wife Erika, and Daniel Davis, wife Rebekah. She is also survived by her loving grandchildren, Drew Messer (Tara), Christie Terry (Patrick), Michael Messer (Annie), Jacob Messer, Charles W. (Chip) Davis IV, Corey Davis (Erica), Brittany Cook (Josh), Lindsay Shipton (Bryson), Hannah Carr (Christopher), Quincy Davis, Kennedy Davis, Emma Davis, Elle Davis, Alivia Davis, Caroline Davis, Christian Davis, Gabe Davis, Cora Davis, Anna Musumeci, and Morgan O’Brien. She is also survived by her great grandchildren: Tripp Terry, Blaire Alice Terry, Harlan Messer, Aria Grace Messer, Rowan Messer, Dawson Davis, Louis Davis, Caden Davis, Waylon Davis, Adeline Shipton, Henry Shipton, Hudson Shipton, Joshua Cook, Esther Cook, and Aubrey Cook, Judah Carr, Cole Carr, and Camilla Carr. A funeral service to honor Karen’s life will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 11am at Trinity Baptist Church. Prior to the service, there will be a viewing at the church at 10am, interment after the service at Gethsemane Memorial Gardens, followed by a reception. The family is grateful for the support of Frasier Funeral Home in Jacksonville, Florida.
Karen Leah Davis will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. However, the devotion she showed to others will live on in all of our hearts. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Trinity Rescue Mission in her honor.