In Loving Memory of Celia May Davis, R.N. - devoted mother and grandmother, sister, daughter, cousin, friend and nurse with a heart of gold. Her light will shine forever on.

Celia was born on February 19th,1959 in Detroit Michigan to parents Sybil May (late) and Gladstone Roy Stair. In the days leading up to her death on April 26th, 2024, Celia was surrounded by her daughters, family and close friends. She fought through a myriad of unforeseen health complications with a grace and fortitude that matched the way she lived her life.

As a child, Celia’s creative, caring and industrious nature quickly became evident. She was the most outgoing of the Stair children, performing in school recitals and taking violin lessons. Like many children, she spent her earliest years singing, playing, and savoring life’s moments, but unlike many, she saw herself as a natural little entertainer, like her childhood idols Diana Ross and Shirley Temple, and she would usually take the lead in organizing and choreographing little performances with her older sister Pat, and younger brother Robert to the delight of her parents. Sadly, and much to her frustration, little Robert just wasn’t very good at the dancing part, and so this trio never quite made it to their dreams of glory at Motown. Still, a good time was had by all, and of course their parents loved it. This trio would later be joined by younger brothers Brian and Michael, and Celia was always very protective and supportive of both. Despite her friendly and peaceful nature, Celia wouldn’t hesitate to chase down bike thieves and neighborhood bullies on behalf of her younger siblings. Among the most magical childhood memories were when her cousins Gary and Nola would come to visit. When the extended Stair family was together, it was pure joy, and the stories of their adventures would continue to entertain the family for years to come. Another highlight was playing cards and board games with her Uncle Winston. They may not have been a wealthy family, their family itself was their wealth, and that was priceless. Celia also developed a knack for cooking, sewing and drawing, all of which she excelled at naturally. Celia was a loyal friend to many, nurturing childhood friendships with neighbors Tricia and Krystal that would grow into a lifelong sisterhood.

In 1977, Celia graduated from Thomas M. Cooley High School as a leader and stellar student. Voted “class hall walker” and “miss congeniality” her senior year, Celia radiated an electric energy that made her a joy to be around. She excelled in field hockey and as a cheerleader for the Cooley High Cardinals. Celia was most proud of how she persevered to accomplish academic and extracurricular goals. She practiced cheers and stunts for long hours until she mastered them. Even through adulthood, Celia was known to periodically burst into an enthusiastic rendition of the “red machine”, one of the Cardinal’s signature cheers. Her ability to encourage and celebrate people in their time of need was truly special.

In 1980, Celia was recognized for her emerging leadership in management at McDonald’s corp., all while pursuing a college degree at Wayne State University in business and marketing. The newspaper feature that read “Celia approaches her career one step at a time” became a mantra and source of inspiration. Celia moved to Columbus, Ohio and over the span of her marriage birthed two daughters, Jennifer (Nicki) Nicole & Natalie Renee. Nicki & Natalie were her motivation, cherished equally with every ounce of her being. Coined “Daughters of Diamonds'', Celia’s pride and love for her daughters knew no bounds. She worked to ensure that they were surrounded by a village of adults who would love her children like their own.

When she returned to Detroit as a single parent, Celia was determined to establish a career that would provide stability for her daughters. Her decision to pursue nursing set in motion a long career of caring and treating others. With two young daughters, Celia worked diligently to earn top honors in a challenging nursing program. She studied after they went to sleep, and sometimes creatively included her daughters in her exam preparation by singing songs that incorporated anatomy and physiology terms. As a nursing student and new nurse, Celia did not miss a piano recital, performance or any opportunity to celebrate and enjoy life with her children. In 1993, Celia sat on the dais as the commencement speaker for the Wayne County Community College District’s Nursing program. She hand illustrated the paper program that was distributed to hundreds of attendees, once again using her creative gifts in service to others.

Celia had a long and successful career as a Registered Nurse, embodying all of the best qualities of a caretaker and patient advocate. Beginning her career at Detroit Receiving Hospital, Celia served in a wide-range of capacities in hospitals, rehabilitation centers and nursing homes. Before her passing, Celia spent a decade as an R.N. at Oakridge Manor in Ferndale Michigan. Many of her colleagues and patients grew to become her extended family. She carried treats to share with her most beloved patients. She purchased holiday gifts for them and told the rich stories of their lives to her daughters. Celia looked forward to returning to work after a weekend to update her Oakridge family on her latest adventures. Celia proudly showcased photos, videos, accolades and announcements while at work, often commenting on how blessed she was to have such a good family. Celia’s nursing career was characterized by the commitment she had to providing comfort and support above and beyond to people in need. She was precise, responsive and guided by integrity, treating each patient with the utmost respect.

To her family, Celia cared for them by contributing humor, kindness and delicious meals made with (butter, sugar and) love. She kept up family traditions and was the keeper of family recipes. She participated in dance battles and with her granddaughter Destiny, who she helped deliver and was so precious in her eyes. She happily spent much of her free time on the phone or in the company of her daughters, gladly keeping up with their everyday happenings and lending a helping hand or listening ear. Celia was responsible for much laughter and joy. To her friends, she was the best companion and encourager, always down to take part in a new activity. She was a fierce competitor in card and board games but would graciously console you after securing the victory. Her quick wit and signature dance moves showcased a cool factor. She always wanted to learn new dances and join in on the fun. Celia cherished the small moments and quality time with her family and close friends. To know Celia is to love her and her fun-loving nature. Her physical presence will be sorely missed.

Celia was preceded in death by her mother, Sybil May Stair, sister, Patricia Ann Stair, brother, Michael Anthony Stair, Aunts Lilly Stair and Phyliss McLaughlin, uncles, Gerald Albert Stair, George Stanley Stair and Noel Grandville Stair. She is survived by her daughters Jennifer Nicole (Sid) Abbott and Natalie Renee Davis, granddaughter Destiny Renee Davidson, her father Gladstone Stair, two brothers Robert and Brian (Lashinda) Stair, Uncle Winston Myrie, three aunts, Joy Stair, Blanche Myrie, and Lucille Edwards, many cousins including Gary (Lynn) Stair, Nola Stair (Dalton Williams), Janice Kerr, Renee Lalley, Lionel McLaughlin, and Nicole Stair, nephews Michael Anthony Stair Jr. and Miles Houser and one niece Morgan Houser. She also leaves behind cherished friends who became chosen family Tricia Solomon, Krystal Johnson and Michele Andrews.

Celia May Davis, R.N.–a ”Mother of Pearls” and our sweetheart. May you rest in the most perfect peace and be eternally proud of your legacy. 

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/celia-davis/obituary/

Copy