Obituary of Mary Marquart Davis

Mary Marquart Davis, 95, of Cortland, NY and Zephyrhills, FL passed away peacefully on December 11, 2015. Born September 28th, 1920 in Auburn, NY, she was the daughter of Howard and Florence Marquart. The oldest of 6 children, Mary was predeceased by her husband of 67 years, Herbert G. Davis, 2 brothers, Howard and William Marquart, and 3 sisters, Elizabeth Marquart Crowley, Florence Marquart Carr and Katherine Marquart Kastick. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Shirley (Howard) Marquart Conyngham and her brother-in-law, Richard (Florence) Carr, along with 11 beloved nephews and nieces (1 deceased), and several great & great-great nieces and nephews. Mary graduated from Cortland Normal School (now known as SUNY Cortland) in 1940, and became an educator/administrator for 35 years, most notably Vice-Principal at Cortland Junior High School 1965-1975. Her very stern demeanor belied a delightful sense of humor; she was both respected and feared, especially by those who enjoyed “regular visits” to her office. Mary’s goal was to keep her students on the right track and she was a memorable figure. She had a great passion for travel for her own education and enjoyment, visiting over 90 countries worldwide, including all seven continents – yes, even Antarctica! Mary’s love of travel was lifelong; in 2013, she visited Cuba at age 92, and was enchanted to have the opportunity to see Hemingway’s home. For 40 years, Mary spent the winter months in Zephyrhills, FL, in the company of lifelong friends from Auburn and Cortland NY, but always returned to her South Cortland family farmhouse in the spring. Mary was active in many community activities including Zonta Club, Four Score Club, Cortland Hospital volunteers and others. Mary Davis leaves us with this piece of advice: “Don’t be afraid to try something new!” A graveside service will be held at 1 pm Wednesday, December 16th at Pine Hill Cemetery in Throop, NY. A spring memorial service is planned in Cortland, details to be announced later. Contributions may be made to Cortland County Area Aging – Nutrition Program, c/o Mary Davis, 60 Central Ave. Cortland, NY 13045 or BetMar Acres Library Club, 5034 BetMar Drive, Zephyrhills, FL 33542. to offer online condolences, visit .www.wright-beard.com