It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Gwen (Sanborn) Davis, 80, on Saturday, January 29, 2022 after making the best life she could while living with dementia. The disease may have taken Gwen's memories, but it could not rob us of her essence.  Gwen was predeceased by her husband, Bill, her mother, Virginia Sanborn, sister Diane Polom and brother-in-law Frank Polom.  Gwen was born and raised in Hartford, Connecticut where she met the love of her life, Bill.  She often said her life did not begin until that fateful blind date in 1960.   Together they raised two daughters, instilling in them the importance of family and a belief that everyone deserves kindness and respect. Gwen held various administrative positions over the years, but her family was her priority. Once her girls were settled in their adult lives, Gwen and Bill moved to Florida to escape the cold winters. They enjoyed 23 years there with wonderful friends and their beloved cat, Rambo. Gwen dedicated her life to serving the Lord and caring for people in every aspect. While living in Florida, Gwen and Bill shared their faith with other Catholics as Eucharistic Ministers, Ministers to the Sick, Crusillio members and as Why Catholic group facilitators.  Bill and Gwen's love was immeasurable and evident in every interaction with one another over the years.  We take solace knowing Bill and Gwen are finally reunited. Gwen's 'second life' began when she moved to Chestelm Health and Rehab. There she lived out her days participating in every event, chatting up her beloved caregivers and flirting with every cute doc that came through her home. We are indebted to the angels that cared for Gwen every day-especially Christine and all of the staff who made her laugh, giggled at her irreverent jokes, or shared stories these past few weeks that brought us peace.

Gwen leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Colleen (Eric) Sullivan, and Tracy (Kevin) Maher, six beloved grandchildren and their partners: Ryan (Jennifer Vanveen) Sullivan, Jason (Alexa) Sullivan, Caitlin (Patrick) Custy, Meaghan (Theus) Banks, Danny (Brenda) Maher, Kelsey (Sebastian) Maher;six great grandchildren, Brayden, Kenzley, James, Emersyn, Emma and Maddie, who each brought a sparkle to Gwen's eyes; and four nieces-Cheryl, Melinda, Peggy, and Julie -that she loved dearly.

A mass of Christian burial will be held Friday, February 4, 2022 at 11a at Our Lady of Sorrows Church,  79 New Park Avenue, Hartford. Burial will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Viewing will be held Friday prior to the Mass from 9a to 1030a at Dillon Baxter Funeral Home, 1276 Berlin Turnpike, Wethersfield. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you emulate Gwen by going out of your way to talk to a stranger, make someone laugh, and cherish your loved ones every day. Donations may be made in Gwen's memory to Chestelm Health and Rehab, 534 Town Street, Moodus, Connecticut  06469. To share a memory with the family, please visit www.dillonbaxter.com