Barbara Davis

Barbara Duncan Davis, age 89, went to be with Jesus in her heavenly home on the morning of Monday, March 4.

Barbara was born in Toms Creek, VA, and lived in Athens, TN since 1995.

Barbara graduated from both Peabody College and Maryville College. After many decades of service in public and Christian education, she retired from a career as an elementary teacher in the Knox County school system. She served faithfully in her church, First Baptist Niota, as the pianist for many blessed years, and continued to serve as a devoted prayer warrior and intercessor following her retirement. She was the first office coordinator for the Good Faith Clinic, for which she received a VIVID award from the City of Athens. She lived her life to serve God and love others, amidst navigating several physical challenges. People often commented on her precious spirit and kind disposition. A woman of prayer, Barbara was a faithful giver in every way and cared genuinely about everyone she encountered. She exemplified her sincerity and love with her favorite phrase, "Bless Your Heart!"

Barbara was the daughter of the late Dr. Robert H. and Letha L. Duncan. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters: Jean D. (Bill) Whitsitt, Jane D. (Bob) Wingfield, and Roberta D. Bagwell.

Her survivors include her daughters: Lea Walker Jolley of Chattanooga, TN, and Beth (Bob) Burkey of Athens, TN.

Grandchildren: Shannon Burger, Wade Jolley, Annslea Jolley, Stephanie (Adam) Graves, Jeremiah Burkey, Jacob Burkey, and Rachael (Justin) Barnes. Great -Grandchildren: Sophie and Baylor Graves; Ashley and Jacob Stephenson; Sunday, Josiah, and Fiona Barnes.

Brother-in-law and wife: David (Mary Lee) Bagwell, along with several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

To honor her requests, a graveside service will celebrate Barbara's life on Saturday, March 9 at 2:00 PM, at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Athens, TN. Family and friends are invited to join in that service. No formal visitation will be held.

In Lieu of flowers, Barbara requested that any memorial gifts be shared with the ongoing work of either of the two ministries dear to her heart: GodSong Ministries, PO Box 208, Athens, TN 37371 www.Godsongministries.com, or First Baptist Church of Niota, PO Box 503, Niota, TN 37826.

You are encouraged to share a memory of Barbara and/or your personal condolences with her family by visiting her memorial webpage and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Athens is honored to assist her family with these arrangements.