Anne Meserve Davis

Anne Meserve Davis, 89, of Evanston, Illinois and formerly of Winnetka, Illinois and Vero Beach, Florida, passed peacefully on November 25, 2025, following a long illness. Born in 1936 to F. Leighton Meserve and Kathleen K. Meserve, Anne grew up in St. James, Long Island, NY. She attended Green Vale School and graduated high school from Miss Porter's School in Farmington, CT. Following her graduation from Radcliffe College in 1958, Anne worked at Brearley School and then did historical research for the television program, Our American Heritage, as well as for Time Inc. in New York, NY. She moved to Chicago in 1962, after her wedding to Chester R. Davis, Jr., and later resided in Winnetka for much of her life.

Anne embraced her many interests and responsibilities with enthusiasm and creativity. While raising her family of three children, Anne volunteered with a variety of organizations, including the Visiting Nurses Association (VNA), Junior League of Chicago and both Boy and Girl Scouts. She served on the VNA Board of Directors for over 40 years, including two terms as Chair. The VNA later recognized her contributions by naming an award for her: The Anne M. Davis Mobile Health Award, which is given annually to an outstanding mobile health provider. As her children got older, she worked as a private banker at Harris Bank and then as a realtor at Baird & Warner.

Anne's true passions in life were her family, friends, photography, tennis, animals, music, and nature. These interests came together each summer, which she spent in Northern Wisconsin. She also enjoyed spending time each winter at her home in Vero Beach, FL. Anne will be remembered by the many people whose lives she touched as genuine, kind, committed, and wise.

Anne is survived by son John (Anne), daughters Julia (Bruce) Guthrie and Elizabeth Davis, grandchildren Ryan and Evan Davis and Griffin, Leander and Fiona Guthrie, and sister Marcia Poutiatine, as well as eight nieces and nephews. Her husband of 55 years, Chester R. Davis, Jr., preceded her in death in 2017. Her brother, Frederick L. Meserve, Jr., passed away in 2024.

A memorial service will be held on January 31, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Christ Church, 784 Sheridan Road, Winnetka, IL 60093.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA.org). To have the NPCA notify the family of a memorial donation, please indicate Anne's name and use the following address:
Donnellan Family Funeral Services, Attn: Davis Family, 10045 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077 ([email protected])

Info: www.donnellanfuneral.com or (847) 675-1990.