Jean Davis being awarded the Robe of Achievement, 2008

Like the Alpha and Omega- whose love and grace sustain her- Jean has been the picture of staying power to all who knew her. Raised as an only child, Jean later married a boy she met in Sabbath School and they went on to have six children.

At a young age, Jean worked for the SDB denomination at the Recorder Press in Plainfield, NJ. While working there she became familiar with the names of churches and other people involved in the Conference. this gave her a sense of loyalty and interest in our churches. She used her secretarial skills to help with family income while her husband studied for his seminary degree. (Many interest committee chairmen have appreciated these secretarial skiils during General Conference meetings over the years.)

One of her gifts is the gift of music. She was a choir member and accompanied on piano and organ and was a choir director. A woman in her community gave her a colorful handmade quilt as a thank you for her willingness to direct to community choir- this neighbor had been depressed and felt her involvement in the choir had given her a reason to live.

As a pastors wife she gave a lot of support behind the scenes but it did not go unnoticed especially by other pastors wives who looked up to her and emulated her behavior.

A peacemaker, Jean, supported her husband in maintaining a loving cooperation among their children as they were growing up- she extended this gift to anyone who needs to find peace with God. She knew how to be a friend- even to the friendless. Not only did she provide a listening ear; she also saw that basic needs were met for those who had no other help.

She was a deaconess and a Sabbath School teacher, and hosted SCSC teams in her home several times. She and her husband made deliveries for the FISH organization. She also delivered monthly newsletters for Manatee Religious Services and was honored for having served the longest in that capacity.

Devotedly loyal to her pastor husband, she remained at his side during his final years, taking on increased responsibility in the church as his health declined. She supported the student pastor in her church as he found his way, relying on her help with planning worship music and proctoring his exams while he studies to become a minister.

A loving and giving person, Jean’s life is a wonderful example for anyone to follow.