Lawanda Davis

LaWanda Elaine (Johnson) Davis was born on January 16, 1966, to Jimmy and Velma Johnson, in Chicago, IL. She transitioned on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC.

LaWanda attended Manual High School in Peoria, IL and received her BS degree from Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL. She was a teacher and librarian at Greenway Park Elementary. Prior to her transitioning, she was actively working to open her own daycare facility.

LaWanda was a strong woman of faith who believed in God and exemplified love for others throughout her life. She was known for her selflessness, always putting others before herself even in her weakest moments. LaWanda cherished family and found great joy in bringing everyone together. She had a passion for teaching youth and inspiring them to achieve their very best. Above all, she chose to see the good in people. Affectionately known as "Momma L", LaWanda touched the lives of many with her kindness and compassion.

LaWanda was preceded in death by her father, Jimmy Johnson of Chicago, IL; brothers, Raymond Johnson and Jimmy Johnson Jr. of Chicago, IL; sister, Maggie Johnson of Chicago, IL; and granddaughter, U’Nique Wilson of Charlotte, NC.

LaWanda leaves to cherish precious memories her mother, Velma Johnson of Peoria, IL; son, Darrin Petty, Jr. (Dontae’) of Charlotte, NC; daughter, Ashley Williams of Charlotte, NC; brothers, Bruce Johnson of Chicago, IL, Arnold Johnson of Chicago, IL, Nate Johnson of Puyallup, WA, Paul Johnson of Peoria, IL; sister, Lisa Thomas (Art) of Peoria, IL; grandchildren, Javon Petty of Fredericksburg, VA, Rashaun Petty of Fredericksburg, VA, Nia Petty of Charlotte, NC, Imani Payne of Charlotte, NC, Jordan Payne of Charlotte, NC, Gardine Wilson, III of Charlotte, NC, Zoe Wilson of Charlotte, NC, Zion Clanton of Charlotte, NC; great grandchild, Zaire Petty of Fredericksburg, VA; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

LaWanda will be dearly missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.

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