Barbara Catherine Davies

Barbara C. Davies died August 7, 2012, at the age of 93. She was the widow of Colonel Walter J. Davies, retired. She and Walter were residents of Bel Air, Maryland for 40 years.

Barbara was the oldest of the six children of Howard and Elsie Gribler of Dowagiac, Michigan. Barbara and Walter graduated in the same high school class from Dowagiac High School. Barbara and Walter then attended Michigan State College (University) where they both graduated. Barbara graduated with a B.S. degree in Home Economics before marrying Walter in 1940. They were married for 70 years.

During her husband's 31 year career in the United States Army, Barbara moved more than 37 times; each time supervising packing and unpacking and taking care of their two children. Twice she had to complete the move on her own, driving with the children across the United States to a port of embarkation because Walter had already been transferred overseas.

After World War II, Walter was assigned to General MacArthur's Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. He was accompanied by Barbara and their children. Barbara really enjoyed living in Japan. While there she taught conversational English to a class of Japanese policemen responsible for guarding the Imperial Palace. She also became friends with Mikimoto, the man who founded the cultured pearl industry. She maintained a correspondence with him for many years.

Barbara was very active in the Aberdeen Proving Grounds Community. She served as a Board member on several APG Community Improvement Boards. Barbara was also a diligent volunteer with the American Red Cross. She was selected as "Volunteer of the Year" on many occasions and in 2010 she received an award for 50 years of faithful volunteer service to the Red Cross.

Barbara C. Davies is survived by two children, Rev. Richard E. Davies of Morrow, Georgia, and LeVoy D. Francisco of Bel Air, Maryland, four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two sisters, Guerda Frenette of Manistique, Michigan and Joan Houseman of Traverse City, Michigan, numerous nieces and nephews, and many loving friends and neighbors.

Interment will be in Michigan.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to either The Aegis Empty Stocking Fund, P.O. Box 189, Bel Air, MD 21014, or The American Red Cross.