Our Ministries
06 Apr

To Celebrate a Life of Love: Lillian M. (Lelia) Davis

October 14, 1926 — April 5, 2017

Lelia was the oldest of five children born to Harry Daniel Davis and Mary Elizabeth Mivelaz Davis. Her siblings were Theresa Jean, Mary Harriette, Harry Daniel, Jr. and Raymond Edward. She is preceded in death by her parents, sisters Theresa and Harriette, brother Ray, niece Karen Livesay. She is survived by brother Harry, sister-in-law Pat, 16 nieces and nephews, 33 great-nieces and nephews and 14 great-great nieces and nephews. She was loved by all!

Lelia attended St. Cecelia’s elementary school, St. Mary’s (downtown) high school and graduated from Harlandale High School in 1942 at the age of 16. She began her career at Kelly Field during WWII and retired from Kelly AFB in 1981 with 29 years of continuous service. Lelia earned her degree in education from St. Mary’s University, having attended evening classes at San Antonio College and St. Mary’s University. After her retirement from Kelly AFB, she began her second career working as a substitute teacher at St. Gregory the Great Elementary School and served as Director at the After School Program at St. Gregory’s school for several years. While only 5 feet tall and only 105 pounds dripping wet, her years of training as defender of the Davis family siblings served her well as disciplinarian in her teaching career when the need arose. Lelia was fun loving and loyal to family and friends—she generously gave all her love, her time, and her resources throughout her entire life. Her sense of humor and zest for life endeared her to everyone who knew her. Lelia was devout in her faith, was a member of Catholic Daughters for many years, and served as Regent of Court Bishop Odin #1758.

Lelia was a lifetime resident of San Antonio, with the exception of a few years she lived in Kingsland, Texas, returning to San Antonio in 2012 where she has resided at Arden Court Memory Care, enlivening the place with her wit, her friendliness and her love of music. Her dance moves are legendary! Our sincere appreciation to the staff of Arden Court for their loving care and friendship, and to Gentiva Hospice staff for the care and support during her final days.

Services

Visitation will begin Sunday, April 9, 2017 at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North at 6 pm. A Vigil Service will begin at 7 pm. Mass will be celebrated Monday, April 10, 2017 at 10 am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church followed by interment in San Fernando Cemetery #2. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Presentation Sisters or a Hospice group of your choice.

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