Elizabeth "Ibby" Davis

Elizabeth Potter Davis, affectionately known as Ibby, entered this world in Cincinnati, OH on June 21, 1939, to Russell Sherman Potter and Louise Burdorf Potter. Ibby grew up in Wyoming, OH and met her forever friend Robert (Rick) James Davis in kindergarten, 79 years ago. They would be celebrating their 62nd anniversary this August. Her life was defined by family, community, and art.

Ibby took pride in the accomplishments of her children, Katie Davis Crawford (Bill) and Stuart Ashby Davis (Laura). Her role as grandmother “Gribby” brought immeasurable joy, and she reveled in the love she shared with her five grandboys – Alex and Ian Crawford in Colorado, and Anderson, Griffin, and Beckett Davis in Maryland. Her extended family in Cheyenne included many close friends, among them the “Gourmet Group,” who provided 50 years of laughter, fun and support.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Louise and Russell; and her sister, Ann Potter Pedley.
She is survived by nephews, Art Pedley; grandniece, Alita, Russell Pedley (Leslie); grandnephew, Andrew; and her niece, Sally Pedley (Pat Abrams). Additionally, Ibby is remembered by her cousin, Sally Hayes (Gary); and their daughters, Sarah and Emily.

She was a proud graduate of Wyoming High School in Wyoming, OH and continued at Goucher College in Baltimore, MD, where she served as the President of her Senior Class. Ibby's pursuit of knowledge took her to Miami University in Miami, OH, where she earned a master’s degree in advanced studies and contributed to the Dean of Women's staff. Ibby's commitment to education extended beyond her own learning as she taught school in Rochester, NY and Cincinnati, OH for 11 years.

The United States Air Force brought Ibby and Rick to Cheyenne in 1969, and the people they met over the two years of his service brought them back to the city permanently in 1973. Over the years Ibby contributed much to the community. She was an esteemed member and board participant of many organizations including the Cheyenne Women's Civic League, Cheyenne Regional Medical Center Foundation, the Old West Museum, Chamber Singers, the Depot, the Attention House, the Cheyenne Symphony, and the Wyoming Children's Society, where she was an honoree of their annual Gala. She served as the PEO AD President, served on the Laramie County Arts Council, National Society of Colonial Dames, the Mayor's Art Committee, and contributed her time and expertise to St. Mark's Episcopal Church. Her dedication to education and community welfare extended to her participation in the LCSD 1 Committee. She and Rick were most recently honored in November at the Cheyenne Regional Medical Center’s Denim & Diamonds gala.

Ibby was a celebrated local artist, contributing many paintings to charity auctions over the years. Her passion for creativity and learning was expressed through her participation in art classes over the course of 40 years at Laramie County Community College, where she met some of her dearest friends. She also studied art at the Cincinnati Art Academy and University of Rochester.
Ibby was truly in her element serving on the staff of Governor Mike Sullivan, where she used her creativity and poise to enhance the communication efforts of the office. She also served on his re-election campaign.

In the tapestry of Ibby's life, every thread represents a commitment to family, community, and the arts. Her legacy will forever echo through the institutions she touched, the lives she enriched, and the community she so passionately served.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Ibby will be on Thursday, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church at 3:00 p.m., with a reception to follow at the Old West Museum.

In lieu of lowers, please donate to Wyoming Children’s Society, Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra,
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church of Cheyenne, Laramie County Community College Foundation, or
Wyoming School Foundation in Wyoming, OH.