Deloris C. Davis

February 28, 1935 – July 20, 2021

Deloris C. Davis was born Deloris C. Iverson on February 28, 1935 in Clinton, Oklahoma. She later moved to Los Angeles, CA, where she married Jimmie Davis Sr (of California) in 1955. Deloris relocated to Portland, OR in the 1970’s. A devout Christian, Deloris was an active member of Piedmont Church of Christ (Portland, OR) for over 30 years. Deloris’s life served as a tangible example of one who is committed to family and passionate about the well-being of children.

Deloris’s commitment to children was evident in her career as an educator, where she flourished. She spent many years teaching Special Education and Math at Franklin High School (Portland,OR), where she was genially known as “Miss Dee” by her students and peers. Deloris retired in 1995. Concurrent with and extending beyond her years as a teacher, Deloris was a respected foster parent, frequently sharing her home with a diverse array of young children and teenagers in need of stability, structure and unconditional love. Although she was in her 50’s at the time, Deloris eventually adopted a trio of siblings, all who were under the age of 10 at the time of adoption.

Deloris enjoyed watching the nightly news and subsequently engaging in depth conversations with her children and adult grandchildren about current affairs. “Lifetime” TV series movies, historical documentaries and good music were also chief among her favorite things. Deloris was particularly fond of jewelry, perfumes, flowers and water (such as oceans and ponds).  Deloris leaves a legacy of love, compassion, and a belief in second chances – no matter how many times one may need such. Deloris’ legacy of compassion extended beyond her family. She was a long time member and supporter of The American Heart Association, The Disabled American Veterans Association, The National Wildlife Association, and Compassion International (Faith, Service & Compassion), an organization which serves the needs of thousands of children worldwide.

Deloris is preceded in death by her two sisters, Helen Simmons and Elenora Buridge as well as her life partner and fiance, Louis L. Waller Sr. Deloris is survived by all of her children, affectionately and respectively known as, “The big 6 Plus 3”: Elondia Holefield (Nevada), Jimmie/Bubba (& Toni) Davis, Nora (Pokey) Davis, Vickie D. (& Terry) Hart, Lois (Regina) Waller, Louis/Lucky (& Jalynn) Waller Jr., Charles (C.A.) Davis, all of Portland, OR as well as Edna Davis and Angel Davis of Nevada.  Additionally, Deloris is survived by 21 grandchildren, who she doted over immensely including, Rochell, JaQuinn, Tarrell, Shaun, Jamie, Ile’jah,  Ai”jah, Jeff Jr. (Jay), Krystal Dee, Louis III, Dionte, Alexis, Aliyah (all of Portland), Alexander (of California) and Kristopher (of Nevada). Deloris is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Deloris passed away peacefully at her residence in Portland, Oregon on July 20, 2021.