Della Maxine Davis

Della "Maxine" (Ray) Davis, age 81, of Coffeyville, Kansas, peacefully passed away at Medicalodges on Midland on May 22, 2025 surrounded by her family. 

Maxine was born on November 28, 1943, in Coffeyville, Kansas, to Ivan M. and Suzie Della (Puckett) Ray. She attended Coffeyville Schools throughout her formative years and completed her education at Field Kindley Memorial High School.

Her career began at Lee's Manufacturing in Cherryvale, Kansas, where she would meet Robert "Bob" Davis, the love of her life. They were united in marriage on March 11, 1967, at the First Assembly of God Church. Together, they created a loving home in Coffeyville, where they raised their two children, Jerry and LaDonna. After Bob’s passing on November 2, 1993, Maxine continued to reside in their family home.

In addition to her role at Lee's Manufacturing, Maxine dedicated 25 years as a cook creating delicious yet nutritious meals for patiences at CRMC, where she later retired. She was proud to be part of a special project that resulted in a beautiful department quilt displayed in the main entry hall of CRMC, contributing a block for the dietary section and addition the finishing touches to the quilt alongside Bob.

Maxine was an exceptional cook who took great joy in sharing her culinary knowledge with her children and grandchildren. Her love for gardening was evident in her collection of over 50 African Violet plants that brightened her home, and she frequently shared new starts with her loved ones. She also enjoyed growing a garden and preserving her harvest through canning.

A devoted volunteer, Maxine spent several years assisting in the Age-to-Age Kindergarten Classroom alongside her dear friend, Edna Mae Chittum. Even after becoming a resident of Medicalodges due to mobility challenges, she continued to participate in classroom activities until two weeks prior to her passing. While still at home Maxine and Edna Mae took to the streets to get their steps in, they cherished their daily walks around the block, where they remained active despite their mobility aids.

Maxine was a loyal member of First Assembly of God during her family years and faithfully attended Coffeyville First Nazarene Church for the past 25 years, serving in various capacities with a true servant's heart.

Described as a gentle, Christ-loving woman, Maxine had an incredible ability to warm a room with her presence and welcoming smile. Maxine was also a bit ornery, quick witted and determined.   She was a loving wife, devoted mother, and passionate grandmother who deeply cherished her grandchildren. Family gatherings held a special place in her heart, often accompanied by the endearing tradition of forgetting the Brussels sprouts in the microwave until after the meal.

Maxine is survived by her children, Jerry Davis and wife Judith, and LaDonna Foreman and husband Harley, who will always remember her affectionately. Her grandchildren, Harley Birmingham, Kate (Foreman) Smith and husband Derek, Nate Davis, and Shawn Davis adored her dearly. She is also survived by her brother Joe Ray and wife Sharon, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, as well as her beloved four-legged companion, Tipper. Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bob, brothers Ivan Ray Jr. and Paul Ray, and sister Doris Findley.  Maxine will be laid to rest at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, next to her husband Bob. To leave an online message of condolence, share a memory with the family, or view live streaming of her service, please visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com.