Mrs. Fran Davis

Fran Cheryl Davis, born Fran Cheryl Walker on February 20, 1960, to Thelma Waler and Tommie Kyles in St. Louis, Missouri was educated in the St. Louis Public Schools and later attended the University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL), where she was just three credits away from graduating with a Bachelor's degree in criminology.

Fran had one sibling, a sister, Rosonna "Wanda" Elam, whom she helped raise during their adolescence after their mother became ill. Fran later moved in with her Aunt Doris Parker and her "sister-cousin," Karen Lockett. During this time, Fran shared her dreams and aspirations and often joked about one day marrying Michael Jackson. She was his #1 fan!

In February of 1975, Fran married Theodore Davis and welcomed two daughters, Sandra Renee Walker-Davis and Korey Lynn Davis. In February of 2000, Fran welcomed a set of twins, Kyla Shemise Davis and Kayla Sharisse (Davis) Wiggins.

Outside of being a devoted wife and mother, Fran chose to honor her country by enlisting in the U.S. Army in December of 1981. She was honorably released from active duty in March of 2005. During her military career, she served in the Army Reserves and was later deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2003 and Operation Iraqi Freedom with the 245th Maintenance Company. She was affectionately known as the "Military Mama" to many and was a wonderful friend to countless others. Fran attained the rank of SSG (E-6) before retiring from military services and returning to civilian life. Following her military career, she went on to work for the Internal Revenue Service and later the Department of Veteran Affairs until her retirement in 2013.

Fran loved Pepsi, Cheetos, coffee, crime television shows (24, SVU, Criminal Minds,) and the St. Louis Cardinals. But more importantly, she loved the Lord Jesus Christ. Fran gave her life to God at a very young age and remained devoted to him ever since. She received spiritual mentorship from the Maxwell and McNeal families and ministered and evangelized whenever she had the opportunity with her girlfriends Penny Jarmon and Sandra Ford. She was a member of the Evangelist Center, where she faithfully served and sang int he choir. She later joined Refuge Center Church under the leadership of Pastor Kenneth Bankhead, Sr. Although she wasn't able to attend in person as much as she would have liked in her later years, she remained a faithful member.

Known to her grandchildren as "Granny," Fran loved bringing the family together for a nice home cooked meal, good music, and even better memories. No holiday was complete without her signature lemon meringue and sweet potato pies!!

Fran was best friends with the late Felice "Buddy" Banks. They did absolutely everything together from eating seafood to painting their fingernails, laughing, and wearing muumuus every chance they got!

Fran was preceded in death by her parents, Thelma O. Walker and Tommie Kyles, and her best friends and "Buddy," Felice P. Banks.

Fran Leaves behind her beloved spouse, Theodore Davis; one sister, Rosonna "Wanda" Elam; four daughters, Sandra Walker-Davis, Korey Davis, Kyla Davis, and Kayla (Davis) Wiggins (Trevion); two God-sons; seven grandsons; two granddaughters; eight great-grandchildren; two nieces; one great-niece; and a host of other cousins, church family, fellow soldiers, and dear friends.

Mrs. Fran Davis' presence profoundly blessed her family, community, and friends. Her legacy, a testament to her remarkable life, will continue to inspire for generations. As you reflect on her life, may the memories you hold dear bring you solace. Her influence will forever be treasured.

With Gratitude:

Our family sincerely thanks everyone for your prayers, love, and support during this difficult time. We extend special thanks to Unity Chapel for your words of comfort and musical ministry, and Refuge Center for your gracious hospitality and fellowship. Your kindness has meant more than words can express.