Charlotte Davidson

Obituary for Charlotte Ann Davidson

Heaven Sent: August 15, 1942 - Heaven Bound: September 13, 2024

Charlotte Ann Davidson was born in Jacksonville, Alabama on August 15, 1942 to Millie and Jesse James Abernathy. She was raised by her parents and extended family in Alabama and Georgia which shaped her character. She grew up as a member of St. Paul AME Church and she accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior at an early age. Her faith, passion for learning, sense of adventure, fierce independence, and strength would serve as guideposts throughout her life.

She graduated from high school at Calhoun County Training School in Hobson, Alabama in May, 1959 with aspirations to attend college. She prioritized building a family and married Joe Harold Davidson on September 5, 1959. They bore three children during their union. They migrated from Alabama, to Georgia, and settled in California in 1963. California would become Charlotte’s lifelong home. They ultimately divorced in October 1971, and she served as a devoted single parent. She raised her children to be healthy and ensured they received an excellent education.

To effectively provide for her family, Charlotte boldly pursued an uncharted path. Charlotte’s learning agility and adaptability afforded her varied and unique career opportunities. She first worked in the aerospace industry for the Department of Defense in El Segundo as a personnel secretary, which required a security clearance. She received glowing reviews as a stenographer and Stocks and Bonds Clerk while working for Bank of America. She expanded her talents at the Bank of Finance as secretary to the President, Vice President, and Loan Officer. In addition, Charlotte coordinated payroll for all of their branches. She was hired by the County of Los Angeles as a Utility Clerk, which included expanded responsibilities in payroll and mileage. She broadened her horizons and changed careers when she was hired as a Peace Officer for the State of California Youth Authority, at the Fred C. Nellis School for Boys. Charlotte retired from the State of California Youth Authority after many years. Charlotte was a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Charlotte loved living in California with the beautiful palm trees and sunny weather. She explored all that the Golden State had to offer from the arts, beaches, mountains, parks, and recreational activities like fishing and camping. In her early years, she especially enjoyed participating in bowling and softball leagues and going on outings with her children. Cookouts and providing meals from her southern roots were a mainstay. In her later years she became a masterful Bingo player and she was featured in the Bingo Bugle Newspaper. She participated in numerous Bingo, Pinochle and Bid Whist tournaments and enjoyed the thrill of winning. She was often sought out as a partner due to her skill and competitive spirit. Throughout her life, Charlotte held a love of reading and she could always be found with a novel to fill her thirst for knowledge. She thoroughly enjoyed traveling by planes, trains, and automobiles; especially with her grandchildren. She cherished her visits with family and friends across the country and abroad. Trips to Canada, Mexico, Italy, Puerto Rico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and the Hawaiian islands brought joy and lasting memories.

Charlotte was affectionately known as “Nana” by her grandchildren, family members, and friends. She took great pride in seeing her children and grandchildren graduate and achieve their educational and professional goals. She enjoyed the company of her dog Miko, and cared for her lovingly. Charlotte was a phenomenal woman who pushed boundaries to live her life to the fullest, in spite of life’s challenges. Her stylish flair, unfiltered and wise counsel and quick wit will be missed.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents, Millie and Jesse James Abernathy and her brother, James Lovern Abernathy.

She leaves to cherish her memories her three children: Lewis Davidson (Rene), Darryl Davidson, Rhonda Davidson-White (Henry); seven grandchildren: Darryl Marquis Davidson, Lewis Davidson Jr., Devin Davidson, George H White III (Hadgui), Gregory White, Grant White, Bailey Davidson; two great granddaughters: Vaneesa White and Kristin Hardy; two great great grandchildren: Khamani Juarbe, Aydien Juarbe, three nieces: LeAudra Mask (William), Regina Carter (Percy), Marla Abernathy (Olasumbo), and a host of relatives and friends.