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BARBARA DAVIS Obituary

BARBARA ANNE DAVIS Barbara Anne Davis (nee Cleasby) died peacefully Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at home surrounded by loving family, partner and close friends. Barbara was the beloved daughter of Cyril and Elsie Cleasby (nee Edwards). She is survived by her partner, Don Richardson; first husband, Clayt Davis; children, Claytus, Christine and Meghan Davis; and grandchildren, Ariel and Rachel Davis, Jacob Davis-Tangredi, and Rebecca and Hannah Davis Gillet. Barbara was a scholar and academic who nonetheless lived fully engaged with both the whole world and those close to her. With a newly-minted Masters Degree from the University of Michigan, she volunteered with Canadian University Services Overseas and taught nutrition to students at the Natural Resources Development College in Lusaka, Zambia for three years. She was later Director of the University of Toronto Dietetics Program and held positions with ParticipAction and Health Canada. She won Dietitians of Canada accreditation for graduates of the University of Toronto's Master of Health Science in Community Nutrition program. In 2015 she was awarded Member Emeritus of Dietitians of Canada. Barb published research articles and books, but left her strongest mark out in the field. On issues of equity and diversity in nutrition she played leading regional, national and international roles. She acted fearlessly, becoming a conscience in her profession, renowned for commitment, brilliance, and occasionally, well-earned contrariness. Her scholar's curiosity was made manifest in a life of travels. Barb and young family trekked and camped across North America, then Europe, then East and Central Africa. The school was the world. In her mid-60s she completed the 600 km Camino de Santiago trail. Barbara led her life with integrity, gratitude and connection. She was open-minded, open- hearted, down to earth and attentive to the needs and feelings of those around her. Adored by family and friends on five continents, her passing is mourned by all, but her memory shines bright in each. A celebration of life is planned at a future date -godspeed on your final voyage- For the past two years Barbara had an exceptional Personal Support Worker, Cathy Jones. To honor Barb's legacy of dedication to education and in lieu of flowers or gifts, the family is requesting assistance to support Cathy's dream of becoming a Registered Practical Nurse. Donations may be sent to https://everloved.com/life-of/barbara-anne-davis/donate/

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Published by The Globe and Mail from Dec. 23 to Dec. 27, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries

Mary Nagle

December 28, 2023

My sincere condolences to her children and partner. Never easy to lose a loved one, most especially, such a beautiful soul as Barbara. Extra hugs to Meghan, Hanna and Becca at this difficult time. Warm memories will be a blessing.

Dr Julia Rackal

December 26, 2023

Barbara was the program director for the Community Nutrition program I did at U of T 1998-2000. She shared those values of integrity and living life with open heart with us. I feel her teaching and spirit lives in all of her students over the years. What a legacy - thank you Barbara.

Barbara Anne Stewart alias the other Barbara

December 23, 2023

We met in high school in West Vancouver. A friendship blossomed then and grew stronger in Ontario many years later. I knew she was VERY bright....with a wonderful laugh. Reading about her accomplishments shows me more than I knew. I will miss her summer visits.

Lynda Lewis

December 23, 2023

I had the privilege of living next door to Barbara for 14 years. She was the most lovely neighbor. Words can't express how much I will miss her. I knew she had an amazing life, but I had no idea to what extent. May she rest in peace and may her memory be a blessing.

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