Lillie Mae Davis was born on May 3, 1935, in Beaumont, Texas, to the late Pinkey and James Gilbert. Her parents, four brothers James Gilbert, John Gilbert, Peter Gilbert, Robert Gilbert and two sisters Lena Taylor and Annie Amare Haynes preceded her in death. She was the eighth of nine children and grew up surrounded by the love and strength of a large family.

Lillie attended Hebert High School in Beaumont, Texas. Shortly after high school, she was united in marriage with Ellis Davis. This union was Blessed with three lovely children Deborah, Marion and Ellis. Her husband and daughter Marion Shelton preceded her in death. In June of 1956, Lillie and Ellis moved to Saint Louis, Missouri, where they began building a life and raising their family.

With determination and a desire to serve others, Lillie attended nursing school at O’Fallon School of Nursing, where she earned her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification. She dedicated more than 35 years of faithful service to Barnes Hospital before retiring, leaving a legacy of care and compassion for those she served.

Lillie was a proud and devoted member of St. Matthews Catholic Church (St. Peter’s). As long as her health allowed, she faithfully attended Saturday services and remained committed to serving others as a member of the Eucharistic ministry.

To her grandchildren she was “Gran,” but in truth, she was Gran to everyone who crossed her threshold. Her home was always open, and her heart even more so. She welcomed anyone who came through her door with warmth and love, often finding herself happily babysitting children whose parents knew they would be cared for like family. Friends would often arrive with their children, saying Deborah had already given permission for them to stay. That was simply the kind of home Gran created—one filled with love, laughter, comfort, and belonging.

Gran had a joyful spirit and a wonderful sense of humor. She loved to laugh and made sure others did too. No one ever left her home without a smile. She listened when you needed to talk, offered comfort when you needed strength, and would give her last to help someone in need. She truly was a source of love and reassurance to so many.

Her family and friends will deeply miss her and her famous pralines, dressing, macaroni and cheese, and potato salad—dishes that brought people together and made every gathering feel like home.

She leaves to cherish her memory two sisters, Magdala Marie Gilbert and Ruby Chaison; two children, Deborah Davis and Ellis Davis Jr.3rd. (Diana Davis); grandchildren Rochel Starling (Tiara), Christie Nelson (Christopher, Courtland), Sherrell (Byron), Corlis Kirkwood-Saadbouh, Ellis Davis 4th (Milly), and Lonnie Stuckey (Jada). Sister-laws Etta Williams and Emma Horton.

Through years of friendship and love, Lillie also embraced many as family, and becoming a second mom to Joylynn Pruitt-Adams (Charles Adams), Patricia Jackson, and Carolyn Keely. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-grandchildren, cousins, and dear friends who will forever cherish her love and memory.