Dorothy C. Davis

It is with great sadness that the family of Dorothy Louise (Champion) Davis, 87-years old, announces her passing on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 in Birmingham, Alabama. Dorothy was born on October 21, 1930 in Birmingham, Alabama to Ethel (Parker) and George Robert Champion. She was the oldest of three children and sister to Robert Champion and Tom Champion.

She was known for sharing her love and this was manifest in her love for God, love for her family, love for her church and love for her students. Dorothy loved the Lord and shared this love through music. Beginning at an early age, she traveled with her “Granddaddy Bob” playing and singing at revivals throughout the south. Later, after she married the love of her life, William Rayford Davis, she joined him as a pastor’s wife singing and playing at church. Her music uplifted many through the years. They were married for 59 years and he predeceased her five years ago.

Dorothy loved her family. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Delyne (Rod Hicks), Carole (Lynn Tuner), and Ray Davis (Tina Culpepper). She will be fondly remembered by those that call her “Gran” Josh Hicks, Brianna Davis, Wes Turner (Erin), Marcus Turner, Ashley Kurth, and Rowdy Culpepper. She also loved the latest additions to her family, Austin Turner and Evelyn Bozeman. She shared her love with so many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Dorothy’s love of God’s family was shared as she served through her churches. She served as the pastor’s wife at Fellowship Baptist Church for 44 years. She played the piano and organ, sang in the choir, taught Sunday School and led the music during Vacation Bible School. She was also a member of East Gardendale Baptist Church for several years before returning to Fellowship. Her smile and sweet spirit will echo through these churches. Many will remember as she so lovingly sang, “I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God.”

Dorothy was educated at West End High School, Alabama School for Women (University of Montevallo) and University of Alabama at Birmingham. She was known as the “Best” math teacher to hundreds of students that roamed the halls at Tarrant High School. She was the sponsor for the “Wildcat” annual and the National Honor Society. She was an avid fan of the Tarrant High School football team and never missed a game during her tenure there.

Funeral services at Ridout’s Gardendale Chapel, Saturday, June 30, 2018 at 11:00am. Visitation will be Friday, June 29, 2018 from 6:00-8:00pm. Rev. Allen Davis and Rev. Bobby Shipp will be officiating. Memorial donations may be made to Fellowship Baptist Church, 2821 Teresa Dr, B’ham, AL 35217.

Special thanks to Susan Marshall for her loving care and friendship of over 7 years.

As we remember Dorothy Davis, we know that she cared deeply and we were loved.