Obituary of Sally M Davis

Sally M. Davis, of Burlington, a devoted mother and grandmother, passed away after a long illness on Wednesday night, November 27, 2024, at the age of 88.

Sally was born in Boston and was the daughter of the late Margaret and Everett Cress.  She grew up in Arlington, where she was a proud graduate of Arlington High School. In her youth, she was a member of the Rainbow Girls and enjoyed spending time with friends at the soda shop in Teele Square.

After high school, Sally worked as a secretary for the Department of Defense in Washington, DC, and later at Epsco in Massachusetts. In the late 1960s, Sally settled in Burlington to raise her three children. During this time, she also worked for decades as a salesclerk at Filene's Basement in Burlington, where she learned to become the ultimate bargain hunter. She quickly became a familiar face in the community, cherishing the connections she made with shoppers and coworkers. Many of those friendships lasted a lifetime, with regular lunch dates and trips continuing long after the store closed. Sally later worked for many years at Kohl's in Burlington, where she formed even more lasting relationships.

Sally’s life was deeply rooted in her love for her family. She was a truly devoted and selfless mother, always present and deeply involved in her children’s lives. She provided unwavering support, offering a comforting presence through every milestone, every challenge, and every joy. Whether she was tending to skinned knees, comforting a worried heart, or offering words of encouragement, Sally was the steadfast, loving force her children could always count on. Her pride in their accomplishments—no matter how big or small—was limitless. As a grandmother, she continued to share that same nurturing spirit. She spent as much time with her grandkids as possible, happily doting upon them and bringing them gifts of deals that she discovered while at work.

For many years, the Lakes Region area of New Hampshire was a beloved family gathering spot where the family created countless memories. The family cherished their summers at the lake, where they spent sun-filled days swimming, boating, and attending clam bakes, and enjoyed snowmobiling in the winter.

Sally also had a love for travel. She often visited Florida, escaping the cold New England winters to enjoy the sunny beaches and Disney. She also had the opportunity to travel abroad, experiencing the culture and cuisine of places such as Paris, Ireland, Italy, and Germany, which enriched her life and created treasured memories.

At home in Burlington, Sally was a dedicated member of the Burlington Historical Society and enjoyed being part of the Baldwin Apples Square Dancing Club, where she made many cherished friendships.

Sally leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to her family and friends. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the warmth and care she gave to those she loved.

Surviving Sally are her loving children, Bryon Davis of Kingston, MA, Paul Davis, Jr. of Burlington, and Sharleen Davis and her husband Jose Ruiz of Burlington; her beloved grandchildren, Shannon Davis, Brett Davis, Branden Ruiz, Shayla Ruiz, and Cody Ruiz.

Sally was the dear sister of the late James R. Cress.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visitation on Tuesday, December 3^rd from 5 pm until 7 pm at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., Burlington.  Her Funeral Service will begin at 9 am at the Funeral Home, with a Service at 10 am at the United Church of Christ Congregational, 6 Lexington St., Burlington.  Burial will immediately follow in Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington.