Donna Rae Ellison Davis, age 81 of Sparta passed away on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Wilkes Senior Village. She was born in Oak Hill, West Virginia on October 30, 1944 to the late James Ray Ellison Sr. and Claudine Weeks Ellison. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Charles (Bud) Foster Davis, a sister, Joann Ellison Carter (Leonard), nephew, Ricky Reed and great-grandson, Texas Robert Lewis.

Donna’s family meant more to her than anything else in this world. Her children, grandchildren, and loved ones were the center of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them. She played a significant role in raising four of her grandchildren (sometimes to their parents chagrin). Her loving yet firm discipline style earned her the monicker "Sergeant Davis" among her nieces and nephews. Despite her own poor health, Donna tirelessly cared for Bud for 17 years following his tragic stroke at age 52.

Donna enjoyed many simple pleasures in life. She loved shopping and gardening. She was known as a wonderful cook and gracious host, always making sure no one left her table hungry. Her home was a place filled with warmth, laughter, and love. And clocks, ... and mirrors.

In her younger years, Donna was an excellent tennis player. She loved a frenetic double-solitaire like card game called Nertz, spending time in the mountains and taking in the peaceful beauty of nature. She enjoyed gazing at the moon and appreciating the quiet moments it brought, and everything produced by the Hallmark channel.

Above all else, Donna will be remembered for the love she gave so freely to her family. Her caring heart, gentle spirit, and treasured memories will forever remain in the lives of those who knew and loved her.

Mrs. Davis is survived by her two sons, Tom Davis (Geoff Gingerich) of New Jersey and Todd Davis (Sheri) of Piney Creek, her six grandchildren, Denise Lewis (John), Victoria Davis, Katelyn Sisk, Beau Davis, Angus Gingerich and Duncan Gingerich, six great-grandchildren, Allison Mood (Gunner), Janey Lane Lewis, Ember Davis, Paisley Davis, Adeline Davis and Dallas Hedrick, one sister, Janice Lee Reed (Phil) of Blacksburg, VA and brother, James Ray Ellison Jr. (Anne) of Oak Hill, West Virginia. Also surviving are her nieces and nephews, Leonard Carter Jr. (Kelly), James Ray Carter (Karen) and Kelly Sue Stanley (Joseph).

A Memorial Service to celebrate Donna’s life will be held on Sunday, May 24, 2026 at Ashelawn Memorial Chapel at 5:30pm.

The family will receive friends from 4:30-5:30pm one hour prior to the memorial service.