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July 01, 1941

March 12, 2022

July 01, 1941 -- March 12, 2022

Rebecca Jane Davidson, Age:80

Rebecca Jane (Becky) Davidson, 80, died of cancer on March 12, 2022.

Born 1941 in Marion, Indiana. Preceded in death by her parents Elizabeth (Bette) Davidson and Carter L. Davidson and by her younger brother, Robert Carter Davidson.

She is survived by many loving cousins she adored, most especially Steve and Carol Davidson, their son Chad Davidson, his wife, Laurie, and their son John, who helped her especially during her cancer; her sister-in-law, Marianne, (her brother’s widow) who was a life-long support and travel companion; and niece Emily Reagan, who was like a daughter to Becky, along with Emily’s husband John and their son Emmett.

Becky graduated from Northwestern University with a BA in Political Science in 1963. She attended DePaul Law School and graduated with a JD degree in 1969.

For several years she worked for the Office of the State Appellate Defender and then for 27 years for the Office of the Cook County State’s Attorney as an Assistant Cook County States Attorney. Becky retired from the practice of law in the late 1990’s to pursue her interest in raising money for cancer research.

The number of special friends in Becky’s life is too long to list. Special relationships with friends of over 50 years helped to enrich her Iife, especially John and Mary Empfield and their family, Suzanne and Jack Turner, Gail and Jerry Sadock, Pete Kempfer, and Barbara Adelman.

Becky loved art, music and theater and was a longtime collector of paintings, prints and sculptures. She was a loyal patron of Chicago cultural institutions including the Field Museum, Lyric Opera, CSO, and the Goodman Theater. Becky loved to travel, first with her parents, then with her ex-husband, Dick Geddes, and most recently with good friends and family. She loved Paris, London, Mexico and Egypt. Becky was active in several charitable causes, serving on the Women’s Boards of the University of Chicago Cancer Research Foundation, The Breakthrough Board, and The Five Hospital Board for the Homebound Elderly.

Becky moved to The Clare when her health started to fail and there met new friends who helped her through cancer treatments and the amputation of her left leg with wonderful support, care, and grace.

Becky was known for her big heart, culinary prowess, encyclopedic memory, salty language, and wicked sense of humor. Even after many years of health challenges and setbacks, she maintained her sharp wit until the end. She loved animals, particularly cats and dogs, even though she was highly allergic to them. She made dozens and dozens of many good friends over the years from every place she went and everything she did--from her charity work to continuing education to her travels around the world.

No services are planned at this time; a celebration of her life will take place this summer. Donations to the University of Chicago Cancer Research Foundation or The Field Museum.

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Keith Lawler October 11, 2021

Friend Chicago , Illinois

May the Living God continue to confront the Merced family during these days of separation from your loved one. Peaceful joyful memories. Friends with Rosalena Keith and Jeanne

Shirley Crumpton October 11, 2021

Friend of the family. Chicago , Illinois

PRAISE GOD!!! Another ANGEL has taken flight. Back into the presence of GOD!!! I truly thank GOD for the life, love and legency of "Papi" as I have known him. He and his beautiful wife "Ma" always welcomed me with opened arms. I salute this great man of GOD and warrior of the faith. WELL DONE, thou good and faithful servant. Papi has entered in His place of rest!!! To the family "Iris" your spouse and to all the siblings and their spouses. My prayers are with you and remember. CELEBRATE THIS LIFE well lived. Be strong and carry on!!! The Mantles of "PAPI" are on each and everyone of YOU. Shirley and Family.

Shirley Crumpton October 11, 2021

Friend of the family. Chicago , Illinois

David and Pastor Pam Kacys October 12, 2021

Friend of Sarah Justice , Illinois

Dear Sarah and family, We understand the sorrow of having to be separated from someone you love. We are praying for all of you. Heaven is a sweeter place now thst your dad has arrived. This is not goodbye. It is goodnight until we meet again. Trust in Jesus. He is near. We love you and are here if you need anything. Love. Dave and Pastor Pam

Ralph Sullivan October 12, 2021

Friend Chicago , Illinois

So sorry for your loss. I hope you can find comfort knowing that absence from the body is presence with the Lord. May that ease your pain until you are reunited in heaven where you will never be separated again.

Sharon Kirkwood October 12, 2021

Friend of Sarai Chicago , Illinois

Life is the greatest gift that God has given us. Death is only a bridge towards eternal life with God. Certainly, heaven is rejoicing for another soul has finally reached his true home. Remember my dear sister, Earth Holds No Sorrow, That Heaven cannot Heal. And know that God makes no mistakes. Love you Praying for peace and strength in your time of sorrow

Cheryl Coates October 12, 2021

Friend of Iris Schererville , Indiana

Iris and family. My deepest sympathy for the loss of your beloved dad. May friends comfort you, faith uphold you, and loving memories help you smile again. Cheryl

Obituary Detail

Rebecca Jane Davidson, Age:80

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