Mary Elizabeth Davis, 78, died Aug. 17, 2008, at Prairie Sunset Home, Pretty Prairie.

She was born July 1, 1930, in Larned, the daughter of Leroy D. and Katheryn Herndon Harris. A former resident of Clovis, Calif., and Larned, she lived in Hutchinson since 2004. She received both her BA (1959) and MA (1982) from California State University, Fresno, Calif. She worked in public education; she was a speech pathologist, educator, counselor and teacher of the deaf. She belonged to the First Presbyterian Church, Larned.

Mary was a wonderful wife, fantastic mother and grandmother. She was generous, compassionate, kind, loving, funny and spirited. She loved all animals especially dogs. She held a special place in her heart for children and was passionate about learning, knowledge and the educational process.

On April 3, 1969, she married William Gordon Davis. He died in February 1998.

Survivors include: two daughters, Michelle Dalton and husband John, Murdock, Pam Koch and husband Bob, Kingman; stepdaughter, Wendy Garton and husband Chuck, Calif.; four grandchildren, Sydney and Jack Dalton, Murdock, Josh and Katie Koch, Kingman; three step-grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Memorial graveside services, Thursday 11 a.m. in Vinita Cemetery with Chaplain Art Maddock presiding. Friends may sign the register from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday at Elliot Mortuary, Hutchinson. Cremation is planned.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Red Cross, Humane Society of the U.S., or the Shriner's Children's Hospital, all of the mortuary.

Visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave condolences for the family.