Gayle Marsh Davis

Gayle Marsh Davis, 93, of Indianapolis, passed away Sunday, February 14, 2016 surrounded by loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Helen Louise Marsh Pope; her husband of 57 years, David R. Davis; and her oldest son, David R. Davis, II. Gayle was born in Indianapolis and was a lifelong resident. She graduated from Arsenal Tech High School in 1940 and attended Indiana and Purdue Universities. Gayle raised four children; was grandmother to five; and great-grandmother to one. She was always a leader in whatever community she was in and had many dear friends. She was fun at parties and could lighten any situation with a well-timed joke. In 1953, she was an integral part of a group of parents who organized and started Noble School, the first educational opportunity for children with special needs in Indianapolis. She was honored as a Sagamore of the Wabash. Gayle was a consummate volunteer for many organizations, including tutoring children at Amy Beverland Elementary. She was a proud member of the International Association of Turtles, Inc. Gayle served as Matriarch of her extended family. People just loved to be around her. Her wisdom was profound, her faith was strong, and her feet were firmly planted. When she talked, you wanted to listen. She was quick witted, and full of empathy. Gayle could take any situation and see the good. She accomplished much, loved many, and had a ripple effect on the lives of those around her. Gayle is survived by her children, Marsha Szalay, Randy Davis (Denise) and Barbara Wood (Charlie); brother, Charles Pope, II (Ethel); her grandchildren, Maggie Davis, Michael Szalay, Carrie Reel (Seth), Andrew Wood and Lauren Wood; great-grandson, Sam Reel; nieces, Karen Kobza, Sherry Rising-Moore, Ellen Lennox and Gayle Gunderson; and nephews, Mark and John Pope. Visitation will be Friday, February 19, 2016 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Shirley Brothers Fishers-Castleton Chapel, 9900 Allisonville Rd., Fishers. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at Church of the Saviour, 6205 Rucker Rd., Indianapolis. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Church of the Saviour and/or Quest for Excellence, 2051 N. College Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46202.

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Gayle Marsh Davis

August 22, 1922 - February 14, 2016