Geneva Davis

It has been said that home is where the heart is, and it was there, at home, where Geneva Davis was the most content, surrounded by the family she dearly loved. In many ways, she defined the meaning of devoted wife, dedicated mother, grandmother, great grandmother and loyal friend. A true blessing, her generous spirit, giving nature, and warmhearted ways was an inspiration and gift to those who loved and cared for her. She will be long remembered with joy.

The era of the Roaring Twenties was a time of awakening in the United States. Chaplin movies, Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth baseball was all the rage while bootlegging became a booming business during this time of Prohibition. After 40 years as a catalog only company, Sears Roebuck opened its first retail store and continues to be one of America's favorite shopping stops. Amidst these ever changing times, a young couple living in the village of Vicksburg, Michigan had much to be thankful for. Charles Lance was a hard working farmer, railroad man, and also worked for the Upjohn Pharmaceutical Company. His wife, Angelina (Barber) Lance, was a devoted homemaker. Their world was exceptionally blessed on October 26, 1925 when they welcomed the birth of their beautiful baby girl, Geneva.

Geneva was raised alongside her sister, Charline, and brother, Lyle. She attended Vicksburg Community Schools, and liked school very much. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, Geneva experienced an enjoyable childhood for the times. However, like all families at the time of the Great Depression, everyday conveniences gave way to a more frugal lifestyle, and were often times filled with hardship. Even so, she went on to graduate in 1943 from Vicksburg High School. America was heavily involved in the throes of war during World War II, and from coast to coast, much was being done for the war effort.

Life for Geneva completely changed when she met a young man who stole her heart. Lyle Davis swept her off her feet, and on April 27, 1946, they exchanged vows of marriage in the town of Schoolcraft. Over the years, whenever someone asked how they actually met, Lyle always told them he forgot to lock the door! He invariably got a well deserved rise out of Geneva for his reply each time, yet the sparkle in her eye indicated she knew full well of his teasing nature.

In time Geneva was blessed with a family of her own to love. Her children, Kay, Wanda, Rod, and Jan (Logan) filled her heart with happiness and joy. Selfless in her love for them, there wasn't much she wouldn't do for those she loved. She made a good home for Lyle and their children, and throughout the years it became a haven for their family and friends to congregate. From simple gatherings to holiday festivities, everything revolved around Lyle and Geneva's home.

Geneva was a wonderful cook and served the most delicious meals. With her caring, tolerant demeanor, everyone was welcomed into her home with open arms. Her favorite song, Good Morning Beautiful, clearly expresses the nature of Geneva's heart. In her world, each day was simply beautiful, especially as she felt abundantly blessed to have her loved ones by her side. She also loved the beloved hymns of her youth.

Over the years Geneva worked at Kalamazoo County State Bank where she eventually retired. Retirement gave her more time to enjoy her growing 17 grandchildren. With families now of their own, she reveled visits from any of her 25 great-grandchildren. Very family oriented, having the little ones nearby gave her the greatest joy. Not only was she a wonderful grandmother and great-grandmother, but her magnetic personality and warm ways drew others to her side.

Geneva was attentive and loving. She enjoyed any place her grandchildren were and made an effort to be an integral part of their lives. Her home was their home away from home. One of her most memorable times included a trip to Hawaii and a road trip to California. If anyone were to ask Geneva where her most cherished place to be was, she'd answer without hesitation, her home.

At the age of 86, Geneva Davis, of Schoolcraft, passed away Thursday, May 10, 2012. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Lyle; four children: Kay (Lou) Scohy of Centreville, Wanda (Walt) Scott of Portage, Rod (Cynthia) Davis of Mattawan, Logan (Craig) Roe of Schoolcraft; 17 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; her sister, Charline Patnoude of Three Rivers; brother, Lyle Lance of Portage. She was preceded in death by five great grandchildren.

Geneva's family will receive friends on Sunday, May 13, 2012 from 4-6 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg (649-1697). The funeral service will be held Monday, May 14, 2012, 11:00 AM at Schoolcraft United Methodist Church with burial in Schoolcraft Cemetery. For those who wish, memorial contributions to the March of Dimes and/or Autism Society of Michigan.