Written By Michelle LeGuerre
UTICA, NY — During Black History Month, the community honors the life and legacy of
Magnolia Jean (Baird) Davis, a pioneering educator, musician, housing advocate, and
civic leader whose service shaped generations across the Mohawk Valley. Mrs. Davis, 90, passed away February 4, 2026. Born in Deerfield, New York, her family was among the first African American families to own property and settle in the town, marking an important chapter in local Black history.
She graduated from Utica Free Academy, earned her bachelor’s degree from Utica College, and later obtained a master’s degree in education from SUNY Cortland.
A trailblazer in early childhood education, Mrs. Davis became Utica’s first African American Head Start teacher. She later served as an elementary school teacher and reading specialist at Martin Luther King Elementary School in the Utica City School District.
In 1984 Jean starred in the leading role as Mama in A Raisin in the Sun, Utica’s first independent Black theater production by the the Lorraine Hansberry Ensemble. After retiring in 1990, she continued volunteering in schools as a Community Reader and mentor.
Friend and sorority sister Dawn Laguerre recalled that former students often share how
Mrs. Davis stayed after school to tutor struggling learners and refused to let a child fall
behind. She also quietly brought extra food to support students experiencing hunger —
a reflection of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated’s motto, Service to All Mankind.
Mrs. Davis worked at Griffiss Air Force Base and later the Utica Municipal Housing
Authority, where she became the first Black Tenant Relations representative,
advocating for dignity and fairness for residents.
A lifelong member of Hope Chapel AME Zion Church, she served as pianist and
organist. She was a charter member and former president of Nu Psi Omega Chapter of
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and belonged to Lambda Kappa Mu Business
Sorority, The Links, and the Bessie Hicks Senior Center.
Survivors:
Mrs. Davis is survived by her loving children, cherished grandchildren and great-
grandchildren, extended relatives, her Hope Chapel church family, her Alpha Kappa
Alpha sorority sisters, and countless former students and community members whose
lives were enriched by her service and guidance. Services Calling hours will be held Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Hope Chapel AME Zion Church, 751 South St., Utica, followed by a Homegoing Celebration at noon.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Chapel AME Zion Church youth and
after-school programs.
Remembering a Life of Service
Magnolia Jean Davis’s life reminds us that history is shaped not only by milestones, but
by daily acts of kindness, faith, and service. Her legacy lives on through the students
she nurtured, the families she supported, and the pathways she opened for others.
Community members who are unable to attend the Magnolia Davis Celebration in
person are invited to participate virtually.
Virtual Attendance Information
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3802383785
Meeting ID: 380 238 3785
