Mary, the fifth of thirteen children, spent her early years in Ballinger Texas, and began bowling in 1959 soon after migrating to California.  The love of the game was instantaneous, and  became a natural part of her DNA. 

One year after she started bowling, Mary was recruited by the secretary of the LA Senate of TNBA to become a member of the national organization.   She also joined USBC.

Right out of the first frame "Soul" (as she was often referred to) dedicated herself to bowling and the TNBA lifestyle.   In Mary's freshman year as a TNBA member,  dedication persuaded her  to drive from Los Angeles to New York to participate in her first National TNBA convention - despite only carrying a 122 average.  She even married another avid bowler (together for 50 years with Willie Davis.)  The two enjoyed bowling immensely, and raised a grandson (Dante Davis) who also became a passionate bowler.

A beginner's average never discouraged "Soul" from attending that tournament in 1960, and that ambition afforded her the first of many 200 games she would shoot in her pursuit of the sport.   In addition to that accolade, Mary saw other amateur bowling accomplishments as the years went on including the win of the Western Regional Women's Doubles event with partner Dee Johnson, and an all-time high game of 289.

For 12 years, "Soul" was a certified bowling coach with the Midtown Junior Bowling League.   She was also a 10-year member of the Pride and Joy Ladies team, sponsored by Leon Puryear. 

In addition to having served as chairperson of practically every committee available in the LA Senate, Mary served two terms on the executive board  - once as Vice President  from 2002-2004 and once as president from 2004-2006.  The notion she was one of the most dedicated & foundational pioneers within the senate would be an understatement.

 Mrs. Davis has spent decades contributing to and improving the day to day activities of the local senate and TNBA as a whole.   It would be difficult to find any other member with conviction or dedication that rivals hers.  Since 1971, she has missed only 2 national conventions, and remained a TNBA member until her death.   That was a 52 year relationship!

In Mary's own words, her largest accomplishment has been the rewards of fellowship &  friendship acquired along her TNBA journey.  Her heart and "Soul" was entrenched in the relationships she developed within the organization.  The LA Senate family will be forever changed as a result of her parting company.  She will never be forgotten, and will be missed immensely.

The repast will be immediately afterwards at AMF Midtown Lanes.

The family home address is:

2351 Cochran Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90016
323- 931-3518