Ruby Nash Lewis Davis, lifelong resident of Starkville, Mississippi, died in the home built by her father (in 1929) on February 12, 2016.

She was born January 7, 1924, in Starkville, Mississippi as the only child of John Saunders Lewis and Ruby Nash Lewis. She attended the Starkville Public Schools graduating at age 16 with the Class of 1940. She studied music at Sullins College in Bristol, Virginia, majoring in Marimba Performance. A member of Chi Omega Fraternity she graduated from University of Tennessee with a degree in Home Economics. She did additional graduate studies at the University of Wyoming, and became the dietician for the University of Alabama.

As the wife of the late Lt. Col. H. P. “Punchy” Davis, Jr., she spent many years abroad and enjoyed living in the Philippine Islands and in Germany as well as many stateside assignments in Mississippi, Alabama, Florida and Colorado. As an Air Force officer’s wife, she was very active as Treasurer in the Officer’s Wives Clubs where he served. She also was very active on base in Gray Lady hospital volunteer work as well as in leadership roles in PTA and Girl Scouts.

During her husband’s three terms as Starkville’s Mayor, she served as the town’s First Lady and in 2013 reigned with John Robert Arnold as Starkville’s Queen during the 175th founding celebration of Starkville. . While living in Starkville, Ruby Nash served as Treasurer of the United Methodist Women for many years and was actively involved in Starkville First Methodist Church, Circle Mary, the Wesley Fellowship Sunday School Class, the Prayer Quilt Ministry, Starkville Women’s Club, Daughters of the American Revolution, played in several bridge clubs, and enjoyed attending Mississippi State athletic events. Her many talents included being an accomplished musician on the marimba, originating designs in knitting and sewing and creating gourmet meals.

Survivors include her daughters Sandra Davis Thoms (Terry) of Athens, Georgia, Ginga Davis Carter (Glenn) of Columbus, Mississippi, and son John Pierce Davis of Starkville, Mississippi. Grandchildren include Todd DeMuth (Jennifer), Benjamin Davis (Lauren),Andy Thoms (Brittany) Julie Thoms Lough (Shawn), Christina Thoms Dozier (Jody), David Thoms (Haley), Jonathan Thoms (Bethany), Justin Carter (Jenny), Melissa Carter (Sean Johnson, fiancee) and great grandchildren include Avery Demuth, Stirling Van Nostrand, Austin Van Nostrand, Whitney Allen, Benjamin Davis, Pierce Davis, Caroline Davis, Hollis Carter, Mabry Carter, Carson Thoms, Callan Thoms, Elijah Lough, Naomi Lough,Asher Lough, Isa Dozier, Lincoln Dozier, Shay Dozier and beloved caretaker and live long friend Lula Carter.

Her family remembers her as a woman who left her mark through unconditional love and radiating a positive outlook on life.

The family will receive friends at 10 and the memorial service will follow at 11 on Saturday morning, February 20 at First United Methodist Church in Starkville.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to:
Starkville First United Methodist Church
200 West Lampkin Street
Starkville MS 38759

The Wesley Foundation of Mississippi State University
P.O. Box MY
MSU, MS 39762
or the charity of one’s choice