November 12, 2025, 91, Goldsboro —
Mary Lou Peal Davis, 91, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Born on September 14, 1934, in South Charleston, West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Russell Peal and Grace Virginia Porter Peal.
In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her siblings, Russell Peal, Jr., Larry Peal, Jennings Peal, David Peal, and Brenda Vance; and son-in-law, Steve Gray
Mary is survived by her loving husband, John Bruce Davis; son, John Davis, Jr. and wife, Kelli Whitehall; daughter, Becky Gray; grandchildren, Sage Hoffmann and husband, Jeff, Alison Davis, Zachary Hill and wife, Alisa, Tyler Gray and fiancée, Laura, Chelsey Fisher and husband, Zach, and Amanda Peterson and husband, Andy; great-grandchildren, Luke Hill, Blake Hill, Raegan Peterson, Jack Netland, Ben Netland, Vivian Peterson, Henley Fisher, Evelyn Fisher, and Rhett Fisher. Mary is also survived by many nieces and nephews that she loved.
Mary had a joyful spirit and loved the simple things in life. She enjoyed shopping and always seemed to find just the right thing. She also found peace and happiness spending time outdoors. Whether she was tending her garden, fishing by the water, or watching the birds she so adored, Mary found wonder in the natural world around her. The beach held a special place in her heart, where she loved to feel the sun on her face and listen to the crashing waves.
A devoted and faithful military spouse, Mary stood proudly beside her husband, John, throughout his service. No matter where he was stationed, Mary created a warm and welcoming home, embracing every new place and building friendships along the way. Her strength, loyalty, and adaptability were a testament to her love and dedication.
Above all, family was Mary’s greatest joy. She was the heart of every gathering, the first to celebrate, and the one everyone turned to for comfort and laughter. Her grandchildren were her pride and delight; she never missed a chance to brag about them, cheer them on, or share her endless love and encouragement.
Mary’s legacy lives on in the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the family she cherished so deeply. She will be missed beyond measure but remembered always with warmth, gratitude, and love.
A service to celebrate Mary’s life will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 2 p.m. at the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Goldsboro, North Carolina.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 in memory of Mary.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Inc.
