Donna Jean Edelen Davis

Donna Jean Edelen Davis (78), passed away peacefully on November 15, 2023 with her family by her side. She was born in South Bend, Indiana on April 23, 1945, the daughter of John Thomas and Margaret (Turner) Brown. Donna married Edward Edelen in Evanston, Illinois, where they resided before buying a home in Arlington Heights to raise their children. She was a known Civil Rights Activist and member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).

Donna was a proud mother of six children. She worked hard to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Donna and her family moved to San Diego, California, where as a Registered Nurse and Midwife she continued her career for more than 40 years. Later in life, Donna met and married Tommy Davis. They were together until his death (now reunited). She was passionate about writing poetry, researching genealogy, and helping the homeless community in San Diego. Donna tirelessly prepared and distributed home cooked meals; provided clothing, blankets, and personal supplies; and served on various committees as an Advocate.

Donna was a force to be reckoned with. Her steadfast determination and perseverance will be missed, especially by her family and friends. Donna leaves behind six siblings. Her legacy lives on through her children: Barbara (Daniel), Wendy (Gregg), Eddie (Yolanda), Derrick (Teresa), Jeff (Davell), Penny, and Tammy (step-daughter); grandchildren: Justin, Michael, Tiffany, Whittney, Eddie, Brianna, Nathan, Alfonso, Ricardo, Cynthia, Thalia, Tony, Ashley, Melissa, Nirvana, and her Reyna); great-grandchildren: Andrew, Amaya, Nevaeh; many other loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren from the Baker, Bryant, and Gonzalez families; and numerous other family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, our family asks that donations be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation or

a nonprofit organization serving the unhoused.

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