Diane Carol Davis

Diane Carol Davis, 79, of New Windsor, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 5, 2023, with her beloved children by her side.

She was born on May 21, 1944, and was the daughter of the late Sheldon and Ruth Davis of Newburgh.

Her life was truly magical, as evidenced by the many names and titles she was given throughout her life.

She was an advisor, aunt, “Baby Ruth,” caregiver, daughter, DD, Dee, friend, mentor, mother, Mrs. Inkeles, Ms. Davis, Nana, NASCAR Nana, partner, sister, Sister Miriam Ruth, teacher, therapist, tutor, union rep, and wife.

She led a life of compassion and service to others and helped many more people than can be listed here.

Diane began her spiritual journey when she entered Mount Saint Mary College as Sister Miriam Ruth in the Dominican order. She graduated from Mount Saint Mary College in 1962, and her first teaching job was in the St. Patrick’s School in Newburgh and then in Tom’s River, NJ.

Diane left the order in 1969 and began working for the Monroe Woodbury School District.

Over the years, she taught English in the middle and high schools. She served the young people in the schools by being a class advisor and co-advisor to the Anger Management program.

She especially loved teaching freshmen and seniors; in return, they loved her. Some of her students felt so very comfortable with her that they still spoke of how she was their favorite teacher. She was the bright spot in the lives of many students who needed an adult to guide them.

Diane was equally generous and dedicated to the well-being of her fellow teachers and her chosen profession. She was a union building rep, AFT delegate, and English Department Chairperson. She continually supported those who dedicated their lives to helping the next generation.

After retirement in 1999, Diane moved to her beloved home in Corrales, New Mexico, where she found peace in the desert southwest. She remained there until 2015, when she returned to New Windsor.

In all aspects of her life, Diane cared for other people and was an unofficial therapist for many in need. She was a faithful mother, colleague, and friend who was ready to listen patiently and offer not only the best, most wise advice but also a touch of humor in worrisome times. As a born caregiver, she loved to cook and welcome others into her home. Her Christmas Open Houses were the fun that famously started the holiday season for so many.

When she found peace and rest from the world, she enjoyed being with her family and friends. She found joy in working on puzzles, coloring, reading, shopping, singing, and traveling. Diane always had a great sense of humor and always saw life positively. She never stopped hoping everyone would be kinder to each other.

She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Marcia Anderson (nee Davis), her longtime partner Harold Calvet, and her ex-husband and friend Brian Inkeles.

Diane leaves a legacy of dear family and friends: her sister Shelby Grimm (John) of Newburgh, NY; brother-in-law Bud Anderson of Newburgh, NY; son Marc Inkeles (Isabel) and grandchildren Alicia and Dylan of Hauppauge, NY; daughter Meredith Inkeles of New Windsor, NY; niece and caregiver Maureen Rivera (George) of Wallkill, NY; best friend Karen Swift of Lake City, FL; bonus daughter Jill Scott (Joey) of Highland Mills, NY; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.

Those who remain will forever treasure her memory and hold her close in their hearts.

Their lives will follow the example of a dedicated warrior for justice, tireless caregiver, and deeply loving mother, friend, and teacher. We will all miss her and hope to make her proud by the way we live our lives.

Brendan and Thomas Flynn will provide cremation care at Oxford Hills Crematory, Chester, N.Y.

Funeral arrangements have been placed within the care of the Flynn Family and staff of Flynn Funeral & Cremation Memorial Centers.

Instead of flowers, please consider donating to the Navajo Water Project (https://www.navajowaterproject.org/give) or Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties.(https://hospiceoforange.com/).