Ruth Ann Davis

Ruth Ann Davis passed away peacefully on October 24, 2020 at the age of 71.

Ruth Ann was born on October 27, 1948 to Russell and Mabel (Sargent) Hails in Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

She attended Mt. Vernon High School and enjoyed keeping up with her classmates including the “Chicks of ‘66”. She received her bachelor’s degree in education from Southern Illinois University in 1970.

Ruth Ann taught for Benton School District 47 for over 20 years most of which was in special education. She was a fierce advocate for her students and kept in touch with many long after they left her classroom. She mentored numerous young teachers during her career and counted several as life-long friends.

She spent her retirement doting over her two granddaughters and spending time with best friends Joyce Thompson, Paula Borgra, Jeanette Dale, and Barb Forsythe. She was an avid reader and loved studying family history.

Ruth Ann is survived by two sons and their families, Jeff and Niki Davis and their daughter Phoebe of Carbondale, and Matt and Robin Davis and their daughter Alexis of Benton; husband Tom Davis; brother and sister-in-law Wayne and Joyce Hails; niece Lori McKinney and her husband Neil McKinney; nephews and their wives Kirk and Kamla Hails and Casey and Teresa Hails all of Bluford; and 9 great-nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents.

In accordance with Ruth Ann’s wishes, cremation will take place on October 28, 2020 and a private scattering of the ashes service will be held for the family. To celebrate Ruth Ann’s life, memorial donations can be made in her name to the Benton Public Library or Franklin County Animal Control.

To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Ruth Ann; visit www.lpfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are through the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.