Peggy Davis

On July 2, 2024, Peggy Gooch Davis, of Alexander, left this earth to go home to the Lord. Peggy was born on October 10, 1936, in Greenville, Mississippi, to the late John Leroy and Margaret Rogers Gooch. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to her family, friends, and church community.

Peggy was a devoted wife to her dear “Bud” Davis for 52 years, mother of five, grandmother (“Mimi”) of thirteen, and great-grandmother of twenty-two. Nothing made her happier than a house full of family, with loved ones laughing and carrying on and children running around. She loved to be in the kitchen making the family’s favorite recipes, or at the campground, or anywhere where she could cheer on her Razorbacks. She was known for her warmth, understanding, and her wonderful sense of humor.

In her professional life, Peggy started out as a wedding planner in the 1970s. She was co-owner of Bridal Villa on Geyer Springs Road, where she greatly enjoyed helping couples as they planned their special day. Her career journey then took her to the role of kindergarten teacher, where she became “Mrs. Peggy” to many, and where her love for God’s little ones was always evident. Her talent and work ethic eventually led her to the role of Director of Life Line Baptist Church’s preschool and kindergarten programs, where her influence on many generations of children will never be forgotten.

Among Peggy’s greatest joys was her 58-year membership at Life Line Baptist Church, where, in addition to running the programs mentioned, she witnessed to Christ by singing in the choir, taught Sunday School, and volunteered for countless other ministries over the years. Lifeline was truly her second home. She loved the Lord with all her heart, and her first desire was for her family, friends, and the world to know Jesus Christ.

Peggy is preceded in death by her loving husband, Alvin (Bud) Davis; sons: Steve and Brian Davis; and her siblings: Carolyn Ashby, Nancy Key, John Gooch, and Jack Gooch.

Left to cherish Peggy's memory are her children: Staci Haroutounian (Vasken) of Branson, MO; Kelli Taylor (Bobby) of Alexander, AR; Kevin Davis (Lisa) of North Little Rock, AR; daughter-in-law Angela Davis of Alexander, AR; grandchildren: Nicholas Taylor, Zack Davis, Whitney Carr, Alyse O’Keefe, Setrak Haroutounian, Stephanie Tanner, Meg Munro, Kolby Davis, Kai Davis, Kassi Davis, Skylar Bartlett, Taylor Davis, and Keaton Whiting; as well as 22 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind several nieces, a nephew, and other close family and friends who will never forget her love and devotion for them.

In celebration of Peggy’s life, a visitation will be held Thursday, July 11th, from 10:30-11:30 a.m., with a memorial service following from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, AR 72015. Burial will immediately follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park at 1:00 p.m. in Alexander, AR.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals who took such wonderful care of Peggy. Because of her years-long battle with cancer, CARTI Cancer Center held a special place in her heart. To aid in their continuing mission of helping families and conducting research, Peggy’s family would like to encourage those who are able to make a donation in her name to the center. (https://www.carti.com/foundation/donate-now/)