Jean Colby Zaun Davis, 89, of East Burke, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, Aug. 20, 2021.
Jean was born in St. Johnsbury, Vt., on April 28, 1932, to the late Clarence Frost Colby and Lydia Adams (Holmes) Colby. She was raised in St. Johnsbury Center and graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy in 1949 and from Lyndon State College in 1968.
A dedicated elementary school teacher for 27 years, Jean treated every child like her own and always went above and beyond in service to her students. She earned the Outstanding Teacher Award from UVM in 1991. After her retirement, she always enjoyed reconnecting with former students and learning about their lives.
Her faith was important to her and she was a valued member of St. Peter's Mission in Lyndonville for many years. She was always available to help her church community as a volunteer, fundraising coordinator or any other role required of her.
Jean took an interest in the lives of members of her various communities and spent a great deal of time helping others, always following her beliefs and leading by example. She was a Justice of the Peace in Burke for many years, and volunteered her time to Caledonia County Home Health Care & Hospice, The American Cancer Society and Relay for Life, Meals on Wheels, The Lyndonville Food Shelf, NVRH, The Burke Mountain Club, The DKG Teacher's Sorority, along with many other organizations and causes.
She married Jack Davis on June 28, 1969, and they enjoyed 51 years together. Jean enjoyed golf, bowling, boating and fishing. She and Jack trained a seeing-eye dog through Guiding Eyes. In her retirement years, she and Jack enjoyed traveling extensively with their camper. They traveled to the Arctic Circle, Alaska and enjoyed many trips to the western states to spend time with their grandchildren. Both Jean and Jack were landowners and supporters of the Kingdom Trails Association.
She was an avid photographer and was vigilant in documenting family and community events. Jean was also a gifted artist in many respects but was passionate about creating stained-glass pieces for her home, family and friends, and to donate. She was also a talented rug hooker and created a number of beautiful heirloom pieces.
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