Donna Marie Davis

Donna Marie Davis, loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, entered into her eternal reward on March 4, 2025, at the age of 69.

Born to Clarence Cooper, Sr. and Veronica Cooper on February 10, 1956, Donna was the 3rd of 8 children. An avid reader and lifelong learner, Donna excelled at school, graduating Immaculate Conception Academy with an academic scholarship to George Washington University (GWU). While at GWU, Donna met the love of her life, Anthony (Tony) Davis. They were quickly inseparable, marrying on Tony’s birthday, a great gift and easy way for him to never forget their anniversary!

Together, Tony and Donna had 5 children, all of whom they gave African names with special meanings: Ayana (beautiful flower), Nsombi (abounding in joy), Mariama (gift from God), Jamari (peace loving), and Damani (thoughtful). Donna often recounted how much fun being a mother was for her, and instilled in her children a love for family, a desire to serve others, and most importantly, a relationship with God. It comes as no surprise that her favorite scripture was Joshua 24:15 “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

Known for her gentle demeanor and loving heart, Donna was a fast friend and confidant to many. She faithfully served her family and friends, with sincere joy and without complaint. An over 40-year member of the University Park Church of Christ, Donna was a Sunday morning Bible teacher for early elementary school children, having the honor to teach both her children and her grandchildren. Professionally, Donna worked for the federal government for more than a decade before leaving to be a full-time stay-at-home mom. Donna later returned to the workforce and dedicated nearly 20 years of service to the Montgomery County Public School system before retiring. Donna loved spending time with her family, attending church, and enjoying a crisp soda. When not spending time with her grandkids, Donna could be found out on an adventure with Tony to their favorite getaway - Virginia Beach, trying out different local restaurants, or walking their beloved dog, Abby. Whatever she was doing, Donna did it with a soft smile, quiet spirit, and wearing her trademark red puffer coat.

Donna was preceded in death by her father Clarence Cooper, Sr., and her mother-in-law Oveta Davis. She leaves to cherish her memory her mother Veronica Cooper; her husband of 48 years, Anthony Davis; her children Ayana Gorham (Christopher), Nsombi Brown (Sean), Mariama Reid (Tavon), Jamari Davis, and Damani Davis (Maria); her sisters Cecelia Cooper-Nelson (Elwood), Kim Washington, Lisa Jordan, and Robyn Maxwell; her brothers Clarence “Butch” Cooper (Linda), Martin Cooper (Karen), and Carl Cooper (Rochelle). And her grandchildren, by family – Gorham: Anaya, Nevia, Kayla, Christopher Jr., Tiana and Joshua; Brown: Milani and Brielle; Reid: Kingston Randolph; Davis: Cora and Ruby; lifelong friends Diane Hunter and June Bennett; honorary son Jonathan Justice; and honorary grandson Karon Spencer; as well as a host of beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and church family.

Family and friends will receive those who wish to honor Donna and celebrate her life on Monday, March 10, 2025, at the University Park Church of Christ in Hyattsville, MD. A viewing will take place at 9:00am with funeral services beginning at 10:00am. The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude for the condolences and messages of sympathy received. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Donna's memory.