Mary Kathleen (Matney) Davis, 83, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children, on June 17, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, Kansas, following complications from surgery.
Mary was born on March 25, 1943, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to William and Vera (Shine) Matney. On June 17, 1961, she married Gerald Joseph Davis, beginning a marriage filled with great memories and family. They would have celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary on the day of her passing.
Mary’s greatest joy was her family. She poured her heart into raising her children and creating a home filled with laughter, and lasting memories. Whether waterskiing, fishing with loved ones, or riding horses, Mary cherished every moment spent with her family. She taught her children the value of hard work, determination, and seeing every task through to completion—lessons that continue to guide them today.
Mary dedicated 25 years of service to Tri-Valley. Beginning her career as the bus driver and rose through the organization to become Director of Operations. Her leadership and commitment earned her numerous awards and the respect of colleagues and friends. After retirement, she continued to serve on the Tri-Valley Board for several years, reflecting on her dedication to helping others.
In her quieter moments, Mary enjoyed reading, watching television, playing pinochle, and challenging family and friends to a game of Scrabble.
Mary is survived by her children: Mark James (Connie) Davis of Gravette, Arkansas; William Edward (Andy Trinh) Davis of Wichita, Kansas; Elizabeth Ann (Ronnie) Swezey of Franklin, Kansas; and Teresa Kathleen (Jerry) Davenport of Fort Scott, Kansas. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Jenni (Brandon) Edge, Jacob (LeAnn) Davis, Mary Swezey, Brianne (Joe) Sheridan, Dehn Davenport, and Davis (Courtney) Davenport. She also leaves behind several beloved great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and a brother-in-law.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; her son, Michael; her granddaughter, Amanda Davis; her brothers, Michael and Patrick Matney; her sister, Theresa Shaw; and her parents.
Mary will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and fun-loving nature. She was always ready to lend a helping hand, offer encouragement, or share a laugh. She was a member of Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church as well as a member of United Way.
Though her family grieves her loss, they take comfort in the memories she created, the values she instilled, and the love she shared. Her memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, June 23, at 10:00 a.m. at Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church. Visitation will be held Monday, June 22, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the Cheney Witt Chapel, with the Rosary immediately following at 6:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Michael J. Davis Memorial at Tri-Valley or to the Care to Share Cancer Support Group and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.