Jane Thompson Davidson, 83, of Columbia, South Carolina, died October 21, 2023 after a strong and courageous battle with cancer. Jane was born in Statesville, North Carolina and was the daughter of James Hall and Rachel Holland Thompson. She graduated from Salem College and through good fortune, met the love of her life, Robert Gage Davidson, Sr on a blind date. The two were blessed with a marriage of 59 years.

The epitome of grace, kindness and generosity, Jane radiated the true charm of a beautiful Southern Lady. Jane's faith was undeniable and her love of family was indisputable. Paramount was her joy and devotion to her five grandchildren. She always had time for them and they all received her dedication, love and insightful nurturing through the years. Jane's family will cherish the memories, laughter and adventures while spending countless beloved days and weeks porch perching at Jane's home "Almost Heaven" at Fripp Island, South Carolina. Jane's passions for family time, wildlife and nature all collided when she ventured to Africa for a wonderfully marvelous safari with her children and grandchildren. Her adoration and affection for Africa was so strong, Jane traveled there nine times with immeasurable joy and eagerness.

Always a joyful educator and stickler for detail, Jane was a treasured third grade school teacher at Ft. Jackson Elementary for over 20 years. During that time, she was awarded the "Teacher of the Year." And without question, Jane's love for nature and animals was evident. As a passionate advocate for Riverbanks Zoo, Jane worked hard to help the Zoo grow and continually succeed in an effort for the patrons to be artfully educated while pleasantly entertained. The San Diego Zoo ran a close second, but Riverbanks held her heart.

Jane was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Daughters of the American Revolution, the Gay "Happy" Garden Club, and The South Carolina Debutante Ball.

Jane is survived by her husband, Robert Gage Davidson, Sr., son, Robert Gage Davidson, Jr., (Donnelly), daughter, Brandon Davidson Shives, grandchildren, Robert Gage Davidson, III, Alice Graham Davidson, Dorothy Grace Davidson, Chalmers Alexander Shives and Eliza Madison Shives as well as her brother, James Hall Thompson, Jr. and niece, Ellen Thompson Morgan (Al) and two great nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and son-in-law, Ernest Randolph Shives, III.

The memorial service for Mrs. Davidson will be held at 12 o'clock, Thursday, October 26th, at First Presbyterian Church, 1324 Marion Street, Columbia, with the Rev. David H. Lauten officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in Jackson Hall at the church. A graveside service will precede the memorial service at 11 o'clock, on Wednesday, October 25th, at Rural Hill Burying Grounds, 4100 Neck Road, Huntersville, NC. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial can be made to The Riverbanks Zoo Conservation Fund, 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210.

The family would like to express gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Fred Kudrik, Nicole Hendry PA-C, Dr. Leslie Stuck and to all of Jane's dear friends.