Dayl Raynor Davis

Dayl Raynor Davis, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, was born on August 25, 1947, in Tampa, Florida. She peacefully departed from this world on October 22, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, first facing breast cancer followed by myelodysplastic syndrome. In her passing, she leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and creativity that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Dayl’s life was deeply rooted in love for her family. To her, they were the center of her universe, and her unwavering support, coupled with her warm hugs and reassuring words, made their lives brighter. She exemplified the true meaning of family, always taking the time to make each member feel special and celebrated. In her role as a mother to her three children, Donna (Mike) Ebaugh, Michelle (Alex) Schiffler, and Greg (April) Gerlosky, she nurtured not just their ambitions but also their spirits.

As a child, Dayl was known for her adventurous spirit and playful shenanigans alongside her cousin Dennis, creating mischief that frequently involved mud, critters, and pranks on unsuspecting family members. Dayl graduated from Bartow Summerlin Institute, class of 1965. This playful child blossomed into a talented young lady, famously earning a scholarship for her performance in the Stephen Foster "Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair" vocal competition in 1967, a testament to her beautiful voice, grace and charm. Dayl graduated from Florida State University in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts in Choral Music, a passion that would lead her into performance and education. She earned her Masters in Education in 1973 from Valdosta State University. In retirement, Dayl continued to serve others as a member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) sorority in Lakeland, FL.

Her career started as a music teacher, but it was her role as a guidance counselor that allowed her to touch the lives of many students for over 40 years. Her passion for music led to her life-long active involvement in church and community choirs, including the First United Methodist Church in Lakeland, FL and the Lakeland Choral Society. Beyond music, Dayl was also a gifted artist and writer, demonstrating her creativity in numerous ways throughout her life.

Dayl's children and grandchildren, Madison, Annabelle, Chloe, Kaitlin, Dayna, Marlena, and Annelies, were the light of her life, and she took immense pride in watching their school performances, sporting events, and most of all, spending time with them.

Dayl is also survived by her sister Pearle (Tom) Wood, her nephew Danny (Avril) Wood, niece Meg (Chris) Shields, great-nephews Chris and Evan Shields, and a host of cousins. They, along with all who encountered her vibrant spirit, will forever hold onto the warmth she brought into their lives.

Dayl touched so many lives throughout her journey on this Earth, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who loved her. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Dayl's love for others is a testament to her faith. Her family takes comfort in the belief that she was surely greeted in heaven by Jesus as well as her mother Marguerite Raynor, father Art Raynor, and grandparents Evelyn and Lonnie Day, and grandmother Irene Ryan who preceded her in death.

Family will receive friends from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Monday, November 17, 2025 at First United Methodist Church, 72 Lake Morton Drive in Lakeland, FL. A Celebration of Dayl's life will follow at 1:00 pm Monday at First United Methodist Church in Lakeland, FL. Memorial contributions may be made to any church music program of your choice in honor of Dayl. Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com