Barbara R. (Scheffer) Davidson

Barbara Ruth (Scheffer) Davidson went to be with the angels on Saturday, October 7, 2017. She was the beloved wife of the late William Sumner Davidson to whom she was married for 66 years.  Barbara was born on August 20, 1921 in Grand Rapids, MI and is the daughter of Herman and Marguerite Scheffer.  Lynne (Groendyke) Davidson, her dear daughter-in-law of 31 years, preceded her in death in 2001. Barbara is the cherished mother of Dr. William Davidson II of Williamston, MI and James Davidson of Wallingford CT. She is the adored mother-in-law of Mary DuChene of Williamston, MI. and Charlotte (Pratt) Davidson of Wallingford, CT and the much loved grandmother of Lisa Davidson and Matthew Case of Seattle WA; Nathaniel Davidson of Santa Monica, CA.; Connor Davidson of Wallingford, CT; Ryan and Jennifer Pavlik of Monticello, FL; and Richard and Molly Hosey of Lutz, FL; along with five great grand-children.  Barbara attended Grand Rapids Central High School and graduated from the Business College.  She worked for Old Kent Bank during World War II and for Jacobson’s Children’s Department for many years.  She was a lifetime member of the Central Reformed Church, serving as elder and deacon on several occasions and in the Chancel Choir for over 66 years. Her voice will continue to endure through the songs they sing. She was an active member of the St. Cecelia Music Society and a docent for years for the Museum. Barbara (“Barb”) will long be remembered by all fortunate enough to encounter her kind and unwavering spirit.  She was famous for admiring and loving “ALL God’s children” and encouraging others to do the same. Barbara was truly an amazing woman who spent every waking moment of her life spreading eternal kindness, love, and support to those around her. Her positivity and amazing gift of storytelling was infectious. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, and friend to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

While she was here, we understood the role of the divine in all human life.  Her love, acceptance, support, wisdom and joyous laughter will be greatly missed by us all.  Arrangements are being handled by Metcalf and Jonkhoff and interment will occur at Rest Lawn Memorial Park in a private family ceremony.  A service celebrating her life will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday August 20, 2018 at Central Reformed Church, 10 College Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

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