Maria Davis Obituary


News Death Notice

DAVIS, Maria Ragland (June 1, 1959 - February 12, 2010) Maria Ragland Davis, 50, an associate professor of biology, was one of three professors killed on Friday, February 12, 2010 in the tragic shooting at the University of Alabama at Huntsville. She had been with the university since 2002. Ms. Davis was raised in the church and was a member of the Plymouth United Church of Christ in Detroit, Michigan. Maria is survived by her husband, Sammie Lee Davis, Sr., his three children, Sammie Lee Jr. Davis, Latasha Tamika Davis, and Melissa Ann Davis; her brother, Roderick J. Ragland; a nephew and niece, aunts, sister-in-laws and a host of other nephews, nieces, cousins, friends, and colleagues. She will be greatly missed. Funeral service will be 12:00 Noon on Saturday, February 20, 2010, at the Progressive Union Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Bobby Sledge and Pastor Cecilia Adams officiating. Interment will be held in Valhalla Memory Gardens. Dr. Davis will lie in repose two hours prior to funeral time. The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. until Noon on Saturday, February 20, 2010, at the church. Royal Funeral Home directing, (4315 Oakwood Ave., Huntsville, AL 35810, www.royalfh.com)

Published by Dayton Daily News on Feb. 18, 2010.
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Memories and Condolences
for Maria Davis

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Marie was my sister in Christ and my friend while she served Christ and lived here in St. Louis. She was very humble and spiritual as she was committed to Christ back in the 90s, she was the first person who inspired me after I became a christian in 1992, personally and from afar. I watched her humbly work the "projector" every Sunday morning for church at Mid County Church of Christ....she did this faithfully as her task, without complaint. I miss this great woman and she set me on a spiritual quest in my life as a result of knowing her. I will never forget our private conversations about Christ. Thank you, Maria, my dear sister in Christ, for your encouragement. Gone but never, ever forgotten!

Corliss Burton

Friend

June 8, 2020

RIH Maria even I didn't know you, you touched a lot of people

Khari Naseem

June 28, 2018

My condolences to a family that I think may be my relatives. My mother's maiden name was Ragland. She was born in Alabama but some of her family migrated to Springfield, Ohio many years ago. I was saddened when I heard of your loss and that Maria had been a Ragland. God be with you these many years later.

Cheryl Fisher King

February 16, 2017

Belated condolences to the Davis family. My path crossed briefly with Maria at NCSU. She was a gentle and kind soul, and well liked by all. A truly tragic and senseless loss! Rest in peace, Maria.

Sunil Sreedharan

June 4, 2016

To the Davis family: There are not enough good words in the dictionary to describe the warmth and kindness of Dr. Davis. She was an absolute joy to work with and the type of person all of us should strive to be. I know her death is a massive loss to you, her family, as well as her friends, UAH, the science community and anyone who had the honor of knowing her. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Laurie Salehi

March 2, 2010

Maria and I were roommates when she was at NCSU. We lived in an off campus apartment. She was always so dedicated to her work-I really admired that. I will always remember that she was so very unselfishless. My father had passed away and I did not have a car. My mother did not drive so I needed a ride home. Maria was going through cancer at that time and didn't feel good. She could not have really been "up" for the trip but she offered to take me home. Another grad student we both knew heard of her plans and offered to drive us both. Darcy's car blew a tire on the way there and ended up hitting a tree. We were okay. Her car was totalled. I guess we were all taken to the hospital to be checked out (details are a little blurry-due to dealing with the death and due to my overall poor memory!). I think they both had whiplash and I was in the back seat and feeling pretty numb anyway-I ended up with bumps and bruises only. Anyway I said all that to say that she was a true friend. It is just unfathomable to think of why/how this could have happened and my thoughts and prayers have been with her family and will be. She knew and I know that God is in control and that He understands whether we do or not.

Penny Rose

February 27, 2010

My deepest sympathy is extended to the Davis & Ragland families during this extremely difficult time. Maria was a "great" Doctor and wonderfully aspiring young lady. She will be missed tremendously. Continue to hold to God's unchanging hands.

Juanita Roye

February 21, 2010

My prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely, Regina Cunningham, Winfield Cunningham's sister.

Regina Cunningham

February 21, 2010

my prayers and condolesces to the family of Mrs Davis. Your loss is God's gain. Pray for comfort in this difficult time.

RG Gordon

February 20, 2010

Maria was a dear friend and fellow believer when I knew her while she attended Brooks Avenue in Raleigh in the late 80's and early 90's...I will surely miss her.

Dwight W. Rose

Dwight Rose

February 20, 2010

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die…(Eccl 3:1-2)
I am so very sorry for Dr. Maria Ragland-Davis' passing. I knew Maria as a undergraduate student at the University of Michigan, College of Engieering. She was a enjoyable and a beauitful person. My symnpathy goes out to her family. Roderick, remember, Maria may be gone from her earthly home, but you will see her again and what a time that will be.

Rutha L. Moore

February 20, 2010

There is really no words that can ease the sorrow of a love one. Although, I can assure the families that Our God is too Awesome to make a mistake. If their is any comfort think on the beautiful memory of your love one. Also remember that Evangelist Nancy Malone Cooks in Mobile, Al will forever keep the families in my prayers.

Nancy Cooks

February 19, 2010

“Jesus Wept.” (Jn. 11:25) a simple but profound statement but these words describe my intense feeling of sadness and loss of my beloved friend and colleague, Dr. Maria Ragland Davis. For sixteen years Maria has been a part of my life and I am so blessed for having known her. I met Maria when she was a Research Assistant Professor at Alabama A&M University in Dr. Khairy Soliman’s Lab and I was a PhD. Student. Since meeting Maria in 1994, she has played two pivotal roles in my life, one as a sister in Christ (she was a member of Northwest Church of Christ and I a member at Farriss Dr. Church of Christ) and secondly as a mentor and friend. She loved Christ, her family, and science but most of all she loved life. Whether by telephone or e-mail, Maria was always ready to offer words of encouragement for your loss, pain even disappointment. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy, Maria would send me comforting notes. October ‘09, I invited her to the University of Memphis to present her research to our biology department seminar and she gladly accepted. Following, the seminar we went to dinner and enjoyed some Memphis barbeque. We talked and laughed into the late night until we both fell asleep. She was certainly a unique person and I am going to miss her so very much. My prayers go out to the family whom she loved intensely.

Shirlean Goodwin

February 19, 2010

“Jesus Wept.” (Jn. 11:25) a simple but profound statement but these words describe my intense feeling of sadness and loss of my beloved friend and colleague, Dr. Maria Ragland Davis. For sixteen years Maria has been a part of my life and I am so blessed for having known her. I met Maria when she was a Research Assistant Professor at Alabama A&M University in Dr. Khairy Soliman’s Lab and I was a PhD. Student. Since meeting Maria in 1994, she has played two pivotal roles in my life, one as a sister in Christ (she was a member of Northwest Church of Christ and I a member at Farriss Dr. Church of Christ) and secondly as a mentor and friend. She loved Christ, her family, and science but most of all she loved life. Whether by telephone or e-mail, Maria was always ready to offer words of encouragement for your loss, pain even disappointment. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy, Maria would send me comforting notes. October ‘09, I invited her to the University of Memphis to present her research to our biology department seminar and she gladly accepted. Following, the seminar we went to diner and enjoyed some Memphis barbeque. We talked and laughed into the late night until we both fell asleep. She was certainly a unique person and I am going to miss her so very much. My prayers go out to the family whom she loved intensely.

Shirlean Goodwin

February 19, 2010

Davis Family please accept my sincere condolences to each of you during your trying time of sorrow. God is still on the throne and trust in Him with all thine heart and lean not to thine own understanding. Keep your hands in His and He will see you through. I pray for your strength and continued blessings be yours is my continued prayer. God bless you.

Mary Castleberry

February 19, 2010

To the family, May God keep you, guide you, and strengthen you during this difficult time. My prayers are with you.

February 19, 2010

I am profoundly sorry for Dr. Davis's passing. North Carolina's loss was Alabama's gain. My hear goes out to her family. May the warm memories of who she was be a source of joy in days to come

Steve Owen

February 19, 2010

I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Maria Davis at UAH shortly after she began her career there. I truly touched by her kindness, inspired by her intelligence,ambition and her willingness to share everything she knew. She touched my heart and I will remain forever grateful to her.

Tunda Meyers

February 19, 2010

My heart goes out to the family. My heart is heavy even though I didn't know your family.
Psalms 91: He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High
shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

I will lift up my eyes to the hills—
From whence comes my help?
My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.

Kay Garth

February 19, 2010

Maria rest in peace. May God's Grace and Mercy keep your family at peace.

Clarissa Brown

February 19, 2010

We grieve with you during your time of mourning. May God bless the Davis family now and in the days to come.

February 19, 2010

My family wish to send our deepest condolences to the family of Maria Ragland Davis.
Only read of this tragedy today and because of that we apologise for the lateness of this message.
Remember you gave her the best -- your time and your love. These are the greatest gifts to give another.
What a precious soul Maria was ! She was definitely cherished by many.
May your faith embrace your hearts with endless amount of love and strength.
Our hearts are broken for you, know that we will continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Carol Stewart

February 19, 2010

Maria and my family go way back to Detroit, MI where we lived on the 20000 block of Snowden. I admired her brilliance as a child. She was WAY smarter than me, that's why I loved to hang out with her. She had a pet duck named "Quack." I could not wait to get home from school to take Quack for a walk. We attended the same schools, Vernor Elem, Beaubien JHS, and then to Redford HS. Maria was always kind, sweet, smart and saintly (to me). I will never forget you my friend! Our condolences to the Ragland & Davis family-Love from the Banks Family, Pat, Kathy, Butch, Dodi, and Bobbi.

Dodi Banks-Whitmore

February 19, 2010

Maria was one of my very dear friends.I worked with her at Research Genetics in 98-99 and again in 2000 and shared her office during my stay there. The first time we met, we became friends. Apart from sharing the same passion for science, we shared a lot in our personal lives. She was very caring, helpful and attentive. She used to take me to different places on weekends, so that I won't feel lonely. When I got married and my husband visited me from UK, Maria extended her friendship to him and tried her best to make our lives comfortble. After I came back, She also came and stayed with us in UK for a week.

She was very happy when she got married to Sammie and she loved her stepdaughters very much. From time to time we used to contact by e-mail, so I lost her home address. Though we had not had a chance to exchange e-mail lately, we both knew we could reach out to each other if we needed to. Sadly for me, that opportunity is gone from me now.

When I lost my husband few years back, she even offered to come and spend time with me or me to go to her. She was indeed a friend in need.

For Sammie and family- I know how it feels to lose your dearest one and I am still trying to come to terms with this tragedy, but I know she will be there in your heart and the thought of her will see you through this dark time. We will never understand why this tragedy happened but you will find peace from the thought that she was a joy to know and you were blessed to have her in your life. Wherever she is , she is in peace with herself, and knowing her, perhaps praying for all others, evening for the cause of your loss!

Love you my dear friend and will miss you.

Priti Chivers

February 19, 2010

May the Lord bless and keep you, the Davis Family; May his face shine on you and give you peace.Amen.

Sharon Youngblood

February 19, 2010

May memories of Maria's sweet smile and boundless energy buoy you not only at this time, but for the rest of your lives. As we in the Dept of Biological Sciences grieve deeply, we will find strength in the example she leaves for us. We are all richer for having known her.

Debbie Carswell

February 19, 2010

To the Davis Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies for your loss.However,be assured that God makes no mistakes and Maria is at peace within His everlasting arms.

Fred Scales

February 19, 2010

God be with you all during this time of unexpected bereavement. May your hearts be comforted by the Holy Spirit in knowing that you will see your love one again, in Glory! God Bless!

Slocum Family

February 19, 2010

My family and I are deeply saddened to hear of such a tradegy. Our prayers are with the entire Davis family! You will all be in our continued thoughts and prayers.
Deepest sympathy,
Jeff and Michelle Morrison and family

Michelle Morrison

February 18, 2010

My condolences to your family.Please know that God is with those who are broken-hearted .

February 18, 2010

Please accept my condolences for this horrible tragedy and your profound loss.

Teresa Roney

February 18, 2010

Dearest Davis Family,

We are so sorry for your loss...

You will be in our thoughts and prayers!

February 18, 2010

May God lift your family up at this time.
Emily Townsend and Family, Harvest, AL

February 18, 2010

God bless and keep all you in His loving care. May the Holy Spirit the Lord promise give you peace and Jesus hope for today and tomorrow.

Willard Kistler

February 18, 2010

So many are praying for you and mourning such a tragic loss of a wonderful and accomplished lady. May God give you comfort.

Grace Campbell

February 18, 2010

May god be with you during this time, and my his loving hand help with the sorrow.

February 18, 2010

so sorry for this senseless tragedy.

February 18, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

February 18, 2010

May you continue to find strength daily in your wonderful memories of your loved one....Our prayers are with you...

Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.

February 18, 2010

I knew Maria when I worked at Research Genetics. I am so sorry for this tragic loss. I am praying for her and her family, friends, colleagues, and students.

Christina Spradlin

February 18, 2010

Maria was a classmate of mine in the PhD program in the Department of Biochemistry at N.C. State University back in the late 1980s. Not only was she smart and a talented researcher, what I know I will remember most about her is just how unfailingly nice and kind she always was. I don't remember her ever having a negative thing to say about anyone, she always found a way to look on the positive side. People have mentioned her bright smile, and that is absolutely true because you pretty much could not have a conversation with her without being treated to many big, friendly smiles. She was just an amazing person, and I am glad I knew her. I offer my sincerest condolences to her husband and family on their loss.

Kevin Sarge

February 18, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

February 18, 2010

Members of the Davis Family - I send my deepest condolences to you as well as prayers and strength as you go through this ordeal. I met Maria when we worked at Alabama A&M University together. She was an extremely kind person whose smile was always forthcoming. I enjoyed working with her. Her presence in the world will be missed. I wish you all well.

Chantae Hardin Alfred

February 18, 2010

Dear Davis Family - you have my sincere condolences during this tragic time. I first met Maria at AAMU in the Plant & Soil Dept. She was extremely dedicated to her work but was a thoughtful and caring individual. The world has lost a wonderful human being. I am better for having known her.

Louise Wyche

February 18, 2010

My sincerest and heartfelt condolence in the tragic senseless loss of such a bright and shining star who had within her the capacity to change this world. May she rest peacefully in the arms of Jesus. Dear family, embrace the memories you have of Maria and keep them as treasured possessions close to your hearts.

-Veronica (Gary, IN)-

February 18, 2010

To the Davis Family,

Even though I do not know you, I feel as if we are all One. I did know one of the fallen professors very well, Dr. Adriel Johnson, who was from my hometown Tuskegee. I pray that God will be with you during this time of sadness. JOY WILL COME IN THE MORNING! May God Bless You!

Keron Forte

February 18, 2010

May God canopy you as a family with grace and peace during this difficult time.

D. DeMonia

February 18, 2010

I met Maria when she first came to Raleigh; she had seen an advertisement about a church seminar we were conducting at Meredith College and she walked up to me and introduced herself. She continued to meet with the Brooks Ave. church of Christ while she was in Raleigh and I grew very fond of her. She had the sweetest Christian spirit of anyone I've every met. My deepest sympathies and prayers go to her family.

Jerry Sprague, Raleigh, NC

February 18, 2010

To The Family,
I have never met your loved one, but I am a child of GOD. Her lovely smile and sweet spirit in her photo says something. She has touched many lives while she lived and her works are still going on. GOD bless you all.

Vivian Estell

February 18, 2010

God Bless your family... our prayers are will you.

The Andersons

February 18, 2010

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

February 18, 2010

To the Ragland and Davis families, I wish to express my sincere sympathy in your sorrow. May it comfort you to know that death cannot diminish the significant ways your loved one touched your lives and the lives of so many others, and that grief cannot take away the happiness you shared.

R.M. Yates

February 17, 2010

I first met Maria sometime in Fall 1999, when I spent a year on sabbatical at Research Genetics. I was a rookie in many ways to the biotech world, she had a busy program - many people depending on her for advice, ideas. I quickly learned that her undergraduate training was in chemical engineering and we talked often about what she did and more importantly why. I remember her talking excitedly about science and about learning - about research. We lost touch for a while when I came back to the UAH Campus. Maria then made a career change - she decided to jump to academia, she joined the faculty of the biological sciences at UAH. I remember those early years as Maria transitioned to the life of an assistant professor - writing grant proposals, getting papers together for publications, mentoring students, serving on examination and curricular committees. It was so easy to work with Maria as we tried to mesh the ideas and needs of chemists, biologists and chemical engineers for the biotech program - but we did, we worked very well together. During late November/December 2009, we talked about getting together an exam for early January, 2010 - and discussed the results. In my last email, I wrote to Maria about sending a copy of the exam for her files. In early January 2010, I walked upto Maria's office to get her advice on some experiments my students and I wanted to do - she showed me the equipment she had and said she would be glad to help the students and me - We talked about getting together to discuss details, supplies we will need and so on.

I do not understand why she is not still here. I do not have any words to offer to those that knew her better than I did, to her family that loved her, to the students that miss her now. I miss her. We all do.
I do not understand. I will never be able to understand the pain her passing has inflicted on so many.

Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti.

Krishnan Chittur

February 17, 2010

Dr. Maria Davis challenged my level of excellence as a graduate student and researcher. My life was changed when God allowed our paths to cross. I will miss her, but her legacy of will live on in so many African American young scientist who began to believe in ourselves because of Maria. My heart is with the entire Ragland and Davis families and know that a nation of people are praying with and for you.

Jeneen Abrams

February 17, 2010

Maria was a beautiful Christian woman -- kind, gentle, loving to all. The world has lost a precious soul, and heaven has gained one.

Mike Tess

February 17, 2010

We are richer for having the blessing of knowing Maria. We will always remember her kindness, gentleness, words softly spoken, loving ways, graciousness, intelligence, and virtuousness. Her price: far above rubies (Proverbs 31:10). We extend our sincere regrets to the family and pray that the Lord will give comfort as only He can.

David & Sandra Mills

February 17, 2010

I am so sorry for your lost. My prayer is that God will give you the peace.

D. Hicks

February 17, 2010

This is a profound tragedy that has touched the entire country. My sympathy to Dr. Ragland Davis's family, her friends, and colleagues. I wish you peace.

June Jeffries

February 17, 2010

What a sad day for Huntsville Alabama and the UAHuntsville Community. Dr. Davis was an inspiration and joy to work with. I could always count on a smile, no matter how stressful the day. I will truly miss her.

Gloria Greene

February 16, 2010

We knew Maria through church when she was in Raleigh. She was a blessing to all who knew her when she was here and it is clear from reading through the other comments that that part of her never changed. Our love and prayers go out for her family at this difficult time.

Charlie and Lori Cruse

February 16, 2010

Maria's pure kindness was the fragrance everyone noticed in her presence. Then in the midst of talking with her, you realized not only her caring heart, but her driving passion to not just be sympathetic, but to do something to benefit another. Maria inspired us in our first year in ministry in 1986, as does her memory even now. Our prayers are with her husband and daughters.

Bailey & Robin

February 16, 2010

I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Maria in Raleigh at the Brooks Ave. church of Christ many years ago. She was such a lovely lady and I am glad for the opportunity to have known her.
May God give you comfort in this awful time.

Doris Dew

February 16, 2010

Isa 25:8 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken [it].

tim Gillotte

February 16, 2010

Dear Sammy and family, may the grace and peace of God comfort you during the loss of your beautiful wife and mother. We will keep you in our prayers.
Sincerely,
Mike and Sheila Watson

Michael Watson

February 16, 2010

Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Dr. Davis taught all three of our daughters and our twins are currently in her class. Our family and our three daughters are devestated by her loss. Dr. Davis was a wonderful teacher and our daughters will always remember her as a treasured teacher and friend.
-The Uckotters (Marie, Anna, Martha, Chrystie and Dan)-Huntsville Alabama

February 16, 2010

Maria was a dear friend to me while I attended NCSU. We attended church together at Brooks Avenue church of Christ and she was one of the first to take me under her wing when I arrived there as a freshman. Maria was such a soft, kind, loving Christian woman and a wonderful example to those around her. I am so saddened to hear of this tragic loss and my prayers are with her family.

Shana Bare

February 16, 2010

Our prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Our daughter went with many from Brooks Ave. Church of Christ to Honduras and we worship here at the Raleigh Church of Christ with many of those same folks. Many were with Maria on the trip she made to Honduras and speak so fondly of her. May God comfort you now as you trust in him. Romans 15:13
In Him, Gary and Mary Selby

Gary & Mary Selby

February 16, 2010

My condolences go out to the Ragland/Davis family.
Although, I did not know Dr. Davis her biography and her accomplishments were so astounding that I felt I had to send my regards to the family. What a wonderful individual she seem to be and I know she will be missed by family, faculty/students and friends. I will continue to keep the family in prayer. What a senseless tragedy.

Keren Childers

February 16, 2010

My heartfelt condolences to the Davis and Ragland families. Please rely on your memories and your faith. From the photo of Dr. Davis, she had a remarkable and hearty smile. I am sure she is smiling down on all of you, her family, with love and admiration and strength. Be strong, be encouraged, and know that she is loved by so many.

February 16, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies. Her life touched many and she completed her earthly assignment. Family, may the Love and Peace of God ease your pain -

Caroline E. Saunders

February 16, 2010

I knew Maria during my Freshman and Sophomore years at Peace College in Raleigh, NC. She and I worshipped together at Brooks Avenue Church of Christ. What a lovely, gentle person, so kind and full of joy. I watched the interview with her stepdaughters on GMA and was not surprised to hear what a loving impact she had on that family. My heart goes out to them all. Praying for peace and comfort during this time.

Kimberly Qualls Morrow

February 16, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Donnie Corbett

February 16, 2010

Please accept my heartfelt condolences to the family of Maria Davis.


Sincerely,

Lucille Darrell

February 16, 2010

Your family is in my prayers.
Kevin McMullins
2007 UAH graduate

February 16, 2010

The world has lost a wonderful woman. We knew Maria in Raleigh. She was a gentle, quiet spirit. We got to know her through our church campus group and she was always an active participant. We had some good times together. We pray for strength and comfort for her family. Sue

February 16, 2010

My prayers are with her family

Dennis Caudle

February 16, 2010

My deepest sympathies to the Davis family. I am so sorry for this senseless loss. May God Bless you and your family in this very difficult time.

C.
Merrillville, IN

Connie McLean

February 15, 2010

I miss you. You were my mentor and big sister. I will always remember you guidance in Dr. Theil's lab at NCSU. You were such a role model and friend. Although we lost touch over the years, you never left my heart. Now, I am sad beyond measure. I extend my sympathies to your family and friends.

Camellia Moses Okpodu

February 15, 2010

Truly sad day for UAH and Alabama. My deepest condolences and utmost prayers for the family.

Valerie

February 15, 2010

Maria was one of the first people to reach out to me when I joined the college group at our church back in the 80's. She was a warm, loving person who always had a kind word for everyone. She was truly an encouagement to me. My heart and prayers go out to the family of this wonderful lady who was such a blessing to so many.

Lori Earnest

February 15, 2010

my sympathy

h didloe

February 15, 2010

Maria's life intersected with mine when we were both at North Carolina State University. In addition to sharing a love for science we also worshipped together at the Brooks Avenue church of Christ in Raleigh. Maria was intelligent and genuine. Her gift was her desire to have true and meaningful friendships with others. I was blessed by such a friendship with her. I am so glad to know that she was flourishing as a scientist and blessed with a wonderful family. My true and sincere sympathy goes out to all the victims and their families - and especially to Maria's husband and daughter.

Darcy Russell

February 15, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

SCOTT CHAMBERLAND

February 15, 2010

My deepest sympathies to Dr. Davis' husband, daughter and the rest of her family and friends. My heart also goes out to the UAH family. I work at Columbus State University and have experienced the closeness of the college community. I can't imagine how awful this is for her colleagues. I hope the support of strangers throughout the country will give you some measure of peace during this terrible time.

Kathy Gierer

February 15, 2010

Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss.

Enis Ragland

February 15, 2010

Although, I did not know Dr. Davis, I had the pleasure of having her step daughter, Melissa Davis, in an HPE class I taught at UAH.
My thoughts and prayers are with Melissa and her father during this difficult time, as well as with everyone at the UAH.

Melissa Johnson

February 15, 2010

A tragic senseless loss of enthusiastic excellent teachers and researchers in their prime of life, who had so much to share and give to the world to make it a better place for all of us.
May God give the family strength to pass this horror and hold on to the memories of an inspirational person she was.

Kamala Bhat

February 15, 2010

I am currently a TA for the Biology Department at UAH and had the pleasure of having Dr. Davis for Cell Biology a couple of years ago. Dr. Davis was an amazing, caring woman. Do you remember the chicken embryo lab from Cell? Some of them hatched, and she looked for someone to take care of them. My boyfriend Kris and I ended up with chickens in our house for 2 months! Those chickens are now at Old McDonald's petting zoo, enjoying a happy life. She cared for everyone, big or small, and I'll always remember her kindness.

Christian White

February 15, 2010

I worked with Maria at Research Genetics in Huntsville many years ago. Words can hardly express what an inspiration she was to me. She was an extremely dedicated and intelligent scientist, and her kindness and understanding was without bounds. I looked up to her, and have often told others that she was a role model for me. I never knew her as a teacher, but I can imagine that her dedication, enthusiasm, and high standards were carried into that portion of her career as well.

I am deeply saddened by her death, and my heartfelt condolences go out to those who loved her. I want them to know that she touched my life in a wonderful way. Her death is a tremendous loss, and the world will not be the same without her.

February 15, 2010

My prayers are with her family.

Tammy

Tammy Crenshaw

February 15, 2010

I worked with Maria at Research Genetics in Huntsville many years ago. Words can hardly express what an inspiration she was to me. She was an extremely dedicated and intelligent scientist, and her kindness and understanding was without bounds. I looked up to her, and have often told others that she was a role model for me. I never knew her as a teacher, but I can imagine that her dedication, enthusiasm, and high standards were carried into that portion of her career as well.

I am deeply saddened by her death, and my heartfelt condolences go out to those who loved her. I want them to know that she touched my life in a wonderful way. Her death is a tremendous loss, and the world will not be the same without her.

Leigh Whitaker

February 15, 2010

I'm also a plant pathologist. I'm so sorry I never met Dr. Davis in person, but I did know of her, our field is so small. I can't find the words to say how sorry I am. Especially I want to express my deepest sympathy to her husband and her daughter. I hope you all can take some comfort in the many lives she touched and enriched, and the value she added to our discipline. She will be missed so much by so many.

February 15, 2010

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