Vivian Iona Malone Davis

In Loving Memory of Vivian Iona Davis

Vivian Iona Malone was born on July 1, 1945, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Minnie Rozier Deedon and McCord Malone. She was affectionately known as “Pineapple” by family and friends, a nickname lovingly given to her by her mother and fondly used throughout her life by her beloved stepfather, James Edward Deedon, affectionately known as “Cappy.”

At the age of five, Vivian left the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia and moved to her mother's hometown of Centreville, Maryland. While her parents remained in Philadelphia, she was lovingly raised by her great-aunt Lena and great-uncle George, a World War I veteran, whom she affectionately called Mom and Dad.

Vivian attended Kennard Elementary, Middle, and High School. After graduating, she enrolled at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where she studied Physical Education. During her time at UMES, she served as co-captain of the cheerleading squad, ran track, and participated in demonstrations advocating for equality and civil rights for African Americans. Vivian loved sharing stories from her college years, including one memorable tale about UMES students outrunning the local police during a protest. Those years provided her with countless cherished memories and lifelong friendships. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education.

Later, Vivian married Edward Davis and moved to Centerville, Maryland, where she began her teaching career in the late 1960s. While she loved teaching physical education, she found the politics of the school system challenging. In the early 1970s, she relocated to Prince George’s County, Maryland, where she began a distinguished career with the Prince George’s County Office of Finance in the Tax Division. Her dedication and professionalism earned her a long and successful tenure at the County Administration Building, where she worked until her retirement in 2006.

Vivian possessed a vibrant personality and a zest for life. She was an avid reader who enjoyed the works of Sidney Sheldon and James Patterson, as well as Reader’s Digest and Harlequin novels. She faithfully watched Jeopardy!, Wheel of Fortune, The View, and Saturday Night Live, and maintained a strong interest in politics.

She loved hand dancing, learning the latest line dances, and attending the Bluebird Blues Festival. Spending time with family and friends was one of her greatest joys. During game nights, she could often be found playing Spades, Bid Whist, or Pinochle. In her younger years, Vivian was highly athletic, enjoying tennis and taking her children to the track to practice sprint drills. She also enjoyed long careers in both softball and bowling and remained an active member of a local bowling league well into her later years. The relationships and bonds she cultivated throughout her life created an extended family whose love and support endure to this day.

Music was another of Vivian’s passions. She especially loved Earth, Wind & Fire, The Temptations, Patti LaBelle, and The O’Jays. She and her friends enjoyed their favorite songs so much that they would sometimes step out of the car and dance at red lights before hopping back in when the light turned green. Vivian was also a devoted Washington Redskins fan and faithfully watched every game on Sundays.

She created a treasured tradition of sharing dinner dates and attending performances at the Kennedy Center with her daughters. These special outings became cherished moments that they all looked forward to and continued to treasure throughout the years. Vivian also loved musicals, including The Wiz, Oklahoma!, The Sound of Music, and The Nutcracker.

Her love of learning and exploration led her to frequent visits to museums, particularly the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Air and Space Museum, and the Lincoln Memorial. She enjoyed relaxing at the beach, traveling, and taking cruises. When it came to dining, she loved Johnny Boy Ribs in Capitol Heights, Maryland, but her absolute favorite was Rodney Scott’s BBQ in Charleston, South Carolina.

At her core, Vivian cherished her beloved elephant collection, which grew to include countless pieces gathered from around the world. Each elephant represented a memory, a journey, or a treasured gift from someone she loved.

On May 29, 2026, the Lord called Vivian home, surrounded by her loved ones.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Kelly Tolbert, Lisa Davis, Larry Clark (Eboni, daughter-in-love), Bryan Sharpless (Fatmata, daughter-in-love), Dalia Wilson, Kristin Coleman, and Horace Coleman. She was also the proud grandmother of 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. In addition, she leaves behind a host of extended family members and dear friends who loved her deeply and will forever honor her legacy.

Vivian was a force of nature—a woman who lived life on her own terms, loved fiercely, laughed often, and left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit, wisdom, and unwavering individuality will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.