Sunday, June 22, 2025
Born in 1938, at Newark Presbyterian Hospital in New Jersey, Dana was the second child of Gordon and Wilma Wilber.
Raised in West Orange, New Jersey, Dana was a bright and inquisitive child with a love of learning. She attended schools in her neighborhood until she went to John Baptist School in Mendam, New Jersey, where she boarded with other female students. She often fondly recalled the friends she made and the fun they shared when living there.
After graduating from St. John’s, Dana attended Centenary College for Women in Hackettstown, New Jersey. Afterwards, she had a brief sojourn as a flight attendant for Delta Airlines until they discovered that she did not meet the minimum height requirement of 5 feet, 2 inches. Disappointed, but not deterred, Dana took a clerical position in New York City and commuted from her family home in New Jersey. Along the way, she met a graduate student at Columbia University, William S. Davis III, “Bud” to family and friends.
Dana and Bud married in September 1960 and the couple settled in Manhattan. Dana loved living near Columbia University and enjoyed the fast-paced, creative vibe of the City. She had her first child, William S. Davis IV, “Sandy,” in March 1962. Two years later, she had a daughter, Pamela. The family relocated to New Jersey soon after.
Dana and Bud divorced in 1969. She worked hard to provide for her children and further her education as a single mother. Adventuresome and creative, Dana embarked on a journey of education and discovery, while always paying her bills on time and making sure her children’s needs were met.
Dana enrolled at Newark State College (now Kean College) and earned a four-year degree. She became a teacher in the Edison School District and inspired many students and colleagues during her 35-year career. Dana was deeply committed to education and spent her summers chairing curriculum committees, preparing for future students. She also completed a master’s degree in administration and all the coursework for a PhD.
Dana retired from teaching in New Jersey in 1998 and moved to the Pacific Northwest to be with her adult children and their families. She settled in Mukilteo and became a respected member of that community. She was a substitute teacher as well as a member of Kiwanis, keen to give back to her new community. Dana loved helping during the Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival and participating in the Everett Film Festival, where she helped choose feature films.
In her 60s, Dana traveled extensively in Asia. She volunteered to teach English to adult students in Thailand to help expand their horizons and opportunities. Dana was happiest when helping others learn and discover their personal strengths.
Her past three years were spent at Harbour Pointe Senior Living. She was known for her sharp wit and intellect as well as her extensive vocabulary. Dana loved her family very much and enjoyed spending time with them above all.
She passed peacefully on the evening of Saturday, May 31, surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her two children and five grandchildren and will live on through them every day.
A Celebration of Dana’s life will be held in Mukilteo, venue and date TBD. Donations to Kiwanis in Dana’s name can be made at mukilteokiwanis.org/donation. Donations in Dana’s name can also be made at wagives.org/organization/msf
