Barbara was born on April 4, 1936, in Temple, Texas, to Homer John Little and Juanita Welch Little, both of whom preceded her in death. She lived in Temple her entire life. In July 1956, she married her high school sweetheart, Ralph Raymond Davis Jr., in Temple. Their marriage was a beautiful example of devotion and love, and they would have celebrated 70 years together in July of 2026.
A lifelong member of Northside Church of Christ, Barbara’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She began teaching Bible school at the age of 12 and continued faithfully for an extraordinary 70 consecutive years. Her lifelong commitment to Christ and service to others touched generations.
Barbara attended Temple High School, where she was honored as a member of Who’s Who, served on the Pepperette Squad, and played tennis. She had a deep love for music and was a gifted classical pianist who taught piano for many years. Her home was often filled with music, laughter, and warmth.
Early in her marriage, Barbara worked to help put her husband through Baylor University, demonstrating her selflessness and unwavering support. She devoted most of her life to being a homemaker, a role she cherished, and she was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Barbara loved her family deeply, shared a close bond with her sister, and was known for her ever-present smile, positive spirit, and gentle encouragement.
She is survived by her husband, Ralph Raymond Davis Jr. of Temple; her daughter, Karen “Kari” Doughty of Temple; her son, Randy Davis and wife Jennifer of Rockwall, Texas; her sister, Jan Guess of Garland; five grandchildren, Carly Davis of Chicago, Connor Davis of New London, Connecticut, Christopher Doughty of Temple, Cory Doughty of Temple, and Kayla Chapman of Temple; and three great-grandchildren, Haidyn Chapman, Addison Chapman, and Sterlin Chapman, all of Temple.
A private burial will be held at Bellwood Memorial Park for family only.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Northside Church of Christ in Temple, Texas.
Memorials may be given in Mrs. Davis' name to Northside Church of Christ Building Fund, 3401 N. 3rd St., Temple, Texas 76501 (https://northsidechurch.securepayments.cardpointe.com/pay?).
