Eleanore Jean Pritchard Ellis Davis

Jean Pritchard Ellis Davis passed away peacefully on Friday morning, September 18, 2020. She was 89 years old. Beloved wife of the late Robert Sigler Ellis, Sr and the late James E. Davis. Loving mother of Nancy Ellis Keith (the late Erbin R. Keith), Robert Sigler Ellis (Ellen), and Thomas Ogden Ellis (Sylvia). Also, Elizabeth Davis Ivey, Leslie Davis Merritt (Greg, MD), and Kevin Ivey, MD. Grandmother of Victoria Ellis, Annalee Ellis, Robert Ellis, Wade Merritt, Leigh Merritt, Davis Merritt, Will Ivey, Clay Ivey, and Mary Frances Ivey. Great-grandmother of Conor Keith and Sheridan Keith. Daughter of the late Hilda Ogden Pritchard and William Glenn Pritchard. Sister of the late Elizabeth “Betty” Rose Marsh. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Jean was born in New Orleans on October 9, 1930, only weighing two pounds at birth. She was greatly influenced in life by her aunt, Margaret Pritchard, a Medical Missionary for over 40 years in Korea, both before and after World War II. Jean graduated from Touro and Tulane University Nursing School, and became a registered nurse. She practiced nursing in New Orleans, where she met her husband, Bob. Jean’s love and devotion was to God and her family. She always loved children and everyone from all walks of life. She had a very generous spirit, and loved to share joy with everyone, especially through friendship and poetry. She was also a talented artist and sculptor, a hobby she enjoyed for many years. Jean was always very attentive to the intricacies of her surroundings, and enjoyed the beauty of God’s creations. Jean epitomized the charm and grace of a Christian Southern lady. She participated in numerous medical mission trips to Honduras and Cuba. Because of her love for the community, she was awarded the 1982 “DIANA” Award from Gamma Iota in Laurel. Jean was involved with many organizations during life, including the Laurel First United Methodist Church Choir (for over 60 years), Society of Mayflower Descendants, Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonial Dames of XVII Century, Three Arts Club, Little Garden Club, United Methodist Women, and was the founder of FUMC Tape Ministry. She volunteered for many years as a docent at the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, and served as president of the Guild of Docents and Volunteers. The family appreciates the care of Heritage Hospice of South Louisiana, and thanks them for the care and comfort they provided in Jean’s last weeks. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a memorial service at Laurel First United Methodist Church, 420 North 5th Avenue, Laurel, Mississippi, at 10:30 am on Saturday, September 26. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, all in attendance are requested to wear a face mask and observe social distancing. Inurnment will follow in Waynesboro Cemetery, Waynesboro, Mississippi. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory to the Laurel First United Methodist Church are preferred. An online guestbook is available at www.gracenorthshore.com