Linda Lee Davis

Kansas City, Kansas- Linda Lee (Keele) Davis was born on January 28, 1939 in Kansas City, Kansas to Orba Lee (Glasscock) Keele and Cecil Richmond Keele. Linda passed most of her childhood and teenage years in Kansas City, Kansas, the exception being one exceedingly happy year spent in Homewood, Illinois near Chicago. Linda attended Wyandotte High School in Kansas City, Kansas where she was very active in theater, earning the lead role in the senior play. Also during her teenage years, Linda worked part-time as a model, showcasing handbags, shoes and nail polish. After graduating from Wyandotte High School in 1957, Linda attended the University of Kansas in Lawrence, earning a bachelor’s degree in education in 1961. The highlights of Linda’s time at K.U. were starring in the University production of the play Tea and Sympathy and working for the John F. Kennedy presidential campaign. In 1961, Linda began her long career in public elementary education, teaching second grade at first and then primarily working as reading specialist. Then, in furtherance of her career, she earned a master’s degree in education from K.U. in 1982. Also in 1961, Linda married her high school sweetheart, Verne Dean Davis. Linda and Verne had one daughter, Stephanie, and they remained married for over 50 years until Verne’s passing in 2012. “Always and Forever” was their motto. In 1999, Linda retired from elementary education and began working for several community colleges in northeast Kansas as an adjunct instructor. She primarily taught western civilization. History was one of her many interests. Linda retired permanently in 2006. During her final years, Linda enjoyed spending time with her toy poodle, Libby; decorating her new home; conversing and shopping with her daughter; doing family research; and traveling. Linda visited Hawaii, Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean, among other destinations. Finally, Linda was a lifelong Methodist. She is survived by her daughter, Stephanie Davis and will be sorely missed by her family and friends. She was much loved and admired. Graveside funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 10, 2023, in Fairview Cemetery, Greensburg, Kansas, with Pastor Chu presiding. Memorials are suggested to the A.S.P.C.A., in care of Fleener Funeral Home, PO Box 41, Greensburg, Kansas 67054.