Paulina Davis Obituary (1958 - 2026) - Glenolden, Pennsylvania

Paulina Antoinette DeMarco Davis, 67, a proud South Philadelphian, devoted public servant, and beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, at Thomas Jefferson Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 27, 1958, to the late Medoro and Nellie (nee Sakowski) DeMarco, Paulina was raised with the values of faith, family, and fierce community pride that would define her life. A graduate of St. Maria Goretti High School, she carried her South Philadelphia roots with her in everything she did. Paulina dedicated her life to service--both to her city and to her neighbors. A passionate community activist and respected political figure, she ran as a State Representative and worked closely as a secretary to Commissioner Joseph Duda. She later continued her service as a court officer for the City of Philadelphia. As a longtime block captain for Pennsport's Jefferson Square Park, Pauline was a constant and trusted presence, always advocating for the people and the neighborhood she loved so deeply. Her commitment to Philadelphia did not go unnoticed. In recognition of her dedication and impact, she was honored with a Liberty Bell award from former Mayor Frank Rizzo--a tribute she held with immense pride. Over her many accomplishments, Paulina's greatest joy and proudest role was her family. She was the loving wife of 47 years to Bill Davis, a devoted mother to Lauren (Gus Picard) Davis, Lesley (Michael) Locklin, and Bianca (Robert) Beamer, and the proud, doting grandmom of Michael Angelo, Ayanna, Amaya, Giovanni, Alayah, and Ava--her heart and soul. Paulina cherished life's simple and joyful traditions: New Year's Day celebrations, the Mummers Parade, fireworks on New Year's Eve, holidays filled with laughter, cooking for loved ones, and dancing whenever she could. Her vibrant personality lit up every room--she was magnetic, warm, and unforgettable. She will be remembered as fiercely loyal, loving, selfless, persistent, outgoing, and deeply faithful--a woman whose strength and kindness left a lasting mark on all who knew her. In addition to her immediate family, Paulina is survived by her dear siblings Frank (Karen) DeMarco and Louise (John) Tynon; her sisters- and brothers-in-law Denise (Stephen) McPeak, Jackie (John) Haddock, and Robert (Donna) Davis; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation on Thursday morning from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Murphy Ruffenach Brian W. Donnelly Funeral Home, 3rd & Wolf Streets. Religious services will begin at 12:30 PM. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest alongside her parents. Paulina's legacy is one of unwavering love--for her family, her faith, and her city. South Philadelphia was not just where she lived; it was who she was.