Celebrating The Life of Estella Davis

July 9, 1934 – July 28, 2026

With profound love and gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life and legacy of Estella Davis, who was born on July 9, 1934, in Lockhart, Texas, to the late Curtis and Benjamin Frankie Kirksey. She peacefully departed this life surrounded by the love of her family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Estella was the third eldest of five siblings. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Vivian Kirksey and Gladys Kirksey-Baker, and her brother, Floyd Kirksey. She is survived by her sisters, Alfay Kirksey-Harris (preceded in death by her husband, Cliff Harris) and Janice Kirksey-Williams (preceded in death by her husband, Worlis Williams). The close bond she shared with her siblings remained a cherished part of her life.

A proud graduate of Carver High School in Lockhart, Texas, Estella accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and became a faithful member of St. Marks United Methodist Church. Her faith became the cornerstone of her life and remained steadfast throughout every season.

On April 5, 1954, Estella married the love of her life, David Davis. Soon after their marriage, they relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where they built a loving home centered on faith, family, and service. She united with St. John A.M.E. Church, faithfully serving on numerous church committees and giving generously of her time and talents. Her church family admired her servant’s heart, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication to God’s work.

Determined to continue her education, Estella graduated from Cuyahoga Community College before beginning a distinguished career as a phlebotomist with May Medical Laboratory in University Heights, Ohio. For more than 25 years, she cared for countless patients with compassion, professionalism, and kindness, earning the respect of colleagues and all who knew her.

Family was Estella’s greatest blessing. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, caring aunt, and a nurturing caregiver. In addition to raising her son, she lovingly helped raise her nephew, Derrick Allen Sr., her niece, Tiffany Sumuel, beginning when they were just 11 and 9 years old, and her niece Janet Henderson from ages 12 to 15. Her home was a place of love, guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support.

She found happiness in spending time with family, bowling, keeping in touch with loved ones on Facebook, and enthusiastically cheering for her beloved Cleveland Cavaliers. Her warm smile, generous spirit, and genuine concern for others made everyone feel welcomed and loved.

Estella leaves to cherish her beautiful memory her devoted husband of 72 years, David Davis; her loving son, Richard Davis (Shevette); her beloved nephew, Derrick Allen Sr.; her beloved niece, Tiffany Sumuel; her beloved niece, Janet Henderson; her cherished granddaughters, Ciera Davis and Ashley Davis; her nieces, Delicia Allen and Deanna Allen; her nephew, Derrick Allen Jr.; her sisters, Alfay Kirksey-Harris and Janice Kirksey-Williams; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Though our hearts mourn her passing, we celebrate a life that reflected God’s grace, faithfulness, and unconditional love. Estella’s legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.