Obituary: Margaret Lucile Davis
Margaret Lucile Davis, age 90, of Kinston, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center in Goldsboro, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family.
Margaret was born on September 2, 1934, in Kinston, North Carolina, to the late Ellis R. Crain and Helen J. Crain. From an early age, she embodied the values of faith, perseverance, and devotion to family, qualities that guided her life and inspired all who knew her.
Her journey was marked by resilience, love, and service. She was married three times: first to Dorsey E. Jackson, with whom she shared the joy of raising her son, Tony; later to Joseph Whitaker; and, in her later years, to John S. Davis. Each chapter reflected her strength in facing change and her enduring faith in God’s providence.
She retired after 25 years of loyal service with DuPont, where she was known for her steady work ethic, reliability, and kindness toward colleagues. Her retirement years gave her more time to devote to her family, her church, and the activities she loved.
A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Margaret’s greatest joy was her family. She was the heart of her home, offering encouragement, comfort, and unwavering love. She especially delighted in cooking and baking, blessing family and friends with meals made from the heart. Her country-style steak and beef stew were among her most beloved dishes, enjoyed at countless family gatherings. Her Christmas sweets were always in high demand, a tradition eagerly awaited and fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Margaret also lived with energy and joy. In her younger years, she was an avid bowler and enjoyed the camaraderie of league nights. She loved to dance, embracing the rhythm and music that brought laughter and happiness into her life.
Her compassion extended well beyond her home. She volunteered with organizations such as Caswell Training School and programs supporting unwed mothers. These efforts reflected her deep compassion for those in need and her desire to live out her faith in service to others. She was also an animal lover who cared deeply for dogs and cats, whose companionship brought her comfort and joy.
In her later years, Margaret found fellowship with the Red Hat Society, where she looked forward to shopping trips, dining out, and afternoons of laughter with her friends. She also enjoyed traveling with the group, making memories of their trips that she cherished and spoke of often. These gatherings and adventures enriched her life with companionship, joy, and laughter.
Those who knew Margaret will remember her as gracious, generous, and steadfast. She had a gift for making others feel welcomed and valued, whether through a warm smile, a kind word, or the comfort of her presence.
She is survived by her son, Tony Jackson, and his wife, Rose H. Jackson, of Garner, North Carolina; her grandson, Brian K. Jackson, of Clayton, North Carolina; and her two great-grandchildren, C. Blake Jackson of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Brooklynn M. Jackson of Garner, North Carolina. She is also remembered fondly by extended family and dear friends.
She is reunited in eternal rest with her parents, Ellis R. Crain and Helen J. Crain, and her husbands, Dorsey E. Jackson, Joseph Whitaker, and John S. Davis.
Visitation will be held at Edwards Funeral Home on Thursday, August 28, 2025, beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Brian Rogers officiating. Interment will follow at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Kinston.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made at First PH Church women’s Ministry for Circle/Missions. 711 Phillips Road, Kinston, NC 28504.
Margaret’s journey is now complete, and her faith has carried her home. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure. She was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure. “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23
Arrangements by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be expressed at www.edwardsfhc.com
