Mary A. Davis

Mary A. Davis, age 92 of Mishawaka, passed away at Park Place Senior Living Facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Mary was born on March 11, 1933, to the late Conrad and Thelma (Joyal) Roberts. She attended St. Monica Catholic School as a girl and graduated from South Bend Catholic High School in 1951. Though she called Mishawaka and South Bend home for most of her life, Mary also lived in New Haven, Indiana from 1964 to 1975. On October 18, 1951, Mary married Robert C. Nijak, and together they shared 23 years of marriage. Robert was the father of their three children: Janine, David, and Thomas. Later, on July 26, 1980, Mary married LeRoy “Shorty” Davis at St. Monica Catholic Church, a place that held special meaning to her. The couple later renewed their vows at the same church, celebrating their love and commitment.

Mary spent most of her life caring for her home and family, but she also held several jobs throughout the years. She worked in the cafeteria at the University of Notre Dame, as a seamstress at NylonCraft, a waitress at DeCook’s Tavern, and as a telephone operator for Indiana Bell. Mary was an active member at the American Legion Post 161 in Mishawaka where she proudly served for many years as an officer and treasurer.

She is survived by her son David R. (Joanie) Nijak of Florida and her stepchildren Keith (Karla) Davis, Tom Davis and Jim Davis, along with numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Surviving as well are her siblings Joseph Roberts, Thomas (Judy) Roberts and Paul Roberts. Mary was preceded in death by her children Thomas M. Nijak and Janine M. Schaefer, the father of her children, Robert C. Nijak, her stepchildren, LeRoy Davis Jr. and Danny Davis, and her siblings Bernard Roberts, Conrad “Connie” Roberts, John Roberts, Don Roberts and Dorothy Burggraf.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 pm Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home in Mishawaka, with funeral services to follow at 4pm. Mary will be laid to rest in St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park.

She will be remembered for her kindness, strong spirit, and the love she shared with her family, friends, and community. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Mary’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.