Cleveland and Warrensville educator also left mark as church musician

January 26, 1949 — February 10, 2026

 

Rose Elaine Davis, 77, of Pepper Pike, Ohio, passed away on February 10, 2026. A devoted wife, mother, sister, educator, and friend, Elaine was known as a standard bearer for excellence in every endeavor, an unwavering belief in and dedication to her students in the classroom and the choir, and for her consistency in showing up on task and on time.

Elaine was born on January 26, 1949, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, to Percy and Rosie Lee Taylor. The second oldest of 6 children, she grew up in a family that valued education and faith — principles to which she remained steadfast throughout her life. Learning to play both piano and organ as a child, her love of music shaped her life and career. She earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from Dillard University followed by a master’s in education from Cleveland State University.

Elaine began her career as a music teacher. Her talent and enthusiasm helped to inspire generations of Cleveland public school students with her talent and enthusiasm. As principal of Whitney Young Middle School on the city’s southeast side, she was the guiding light that earned the school a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence designation in 1998 from the US Department of Education.

Elaine retired from the Cleveland school district after 30 years but could not remain idle. Not long thereafter she became the Superintendent of Warrensville Heights City Schools.

After her second retirement she continued to mentor younger principals and administrators. Her professional journey reflected her firm belief that every child deserved a chance to learn and that educators had the power to change lives.

On December 26, 1971, Elaine married Dwight Davis, marking the beginning of a 54-year partnership built on love, respect, and shared values. Together, they raised two daughters, Zakia and Monique Davis, who were her pride and joy. In later years, Elaine delighted in her role as grandmother to Jillian, Mariah, Aiden, and Corbin, with whom she shared her enthusiasm for music, travel, and family traditions.

Elaine. was an active member of Olivet Institutional Baptist Church for more than 50 years; she led its Echoes of Joy children’s choir for 25 years, founded the Cathedral Handbell Choir, and served faithfully on the Deaconess Board. Her musical gifts and nurturing spirit enriched the worship experience for countless families and children.

Elaine’s community involvement extended beyond the classroom and the church. She was a proud “Golden” member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (Alpha Omega chapter). She was also a charter member of The Links, Western Reserve chapter, Jack and Jill of America, and The Barrister Wives, continuing to be actively involved in each of these later organizations into her later years.

Elaine loved traveling with her family, some of her most memorable destinations were Lagos, Nigeria, Dubai, and New York City.

Elaine is survived by her husband of 54 years, Dwight E.; daughters, Zakia (Kunbi) and Monique (Keith); her grandchildren, Jillian, Mariah, Aiden, and Corbin; her siblings, Dr. Malcolm Taylor, Dr. Connie Taylor, and Reginald Taylor; and many dear friends and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Myron and Brenda Taylor.

The funeral was held at on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Olivet Institutional Baptist Church, 8712 Quincy Ave [44106]. A video of the service is online here.

Arrangements were entrusted to Calhoun Funeral Home on Rockside Rd [44146]. 

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