Barbara Anne Davis (nee Cleasby) died peacefully Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at home surrounded by loving family, partner and close friends. Barbara was the beloved daughter of Cyril and Elsie Cleasby (nee Edwards). She is survived by her partner Don Richardson, first husband Clayt Davis, children Claytus, Christine and Meghan Davis, and grandchildren Ariel and Rachel Davis, Jacob Davis-Tangredi, and Rebecca and Hannah Davis-Gillet.  

Barbara was a scholar and academic who nonetheless lived fully engaged with both the whole world and those close to her. 

With a newly-minted Masters Degree from the University of Michigan, she volunteered with Canadian University Services Overseas and taught nutrition to students at the Natural Resources Development College in Lusaka, Zambia for three years. She was later Director of the University of Toronto Dietetics Program and held positions with ParticipAction and Health Canada. She won Dietitians of Canada accreditation for graduates of the University of Toronto’s Master of Health Science in Community Nutrition program. In 2015 she was awarded Member Emeritus of Dietitians of Canada. Barb published research articles and books, but left her strongest mark out in the field.  On issues of equity and diversity in nutrition she played leading regional, national and international roles. She acted fearlessly, becoming a conscience in her profession, renowned for commitment, brilliance, and occasionally, well-earned contrariness. 

Her scholar’s curiosity was made manifest in a life of travels. Barb and young family trekked and camped across North America, then Europe, then East and Central Africa. The school was the world. In her mid-60s she completed the 600 km Camino de Santiago trail. 

Barbara led her life with integrity, gratitude and connection.  She was open-minded, open-hearted, down to earth and attentive to the needs and feelings of those around her.  Adored by family and friends on five continents, her passing is mourned by all, but her memory shines bright in each.  A celebration of life is planned at a future date

                                                                         -godspeed on your final voyage-

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