It is with great sadness that we announce that Marsh S. Davis, 77, has gone to be with our Lord on March 20, 2025. After years of battling unknown illnesses and surgeries, she then learned of her terminal condition of Advanced Multisystem Atrophy. With Marsha’s husband Mike Davis of 37 years by her side, she braved this knowledge valiantly and found peace in knowing she would be with her Heavenly Father and loved ones on the other side.
Marsha was a woman of varied interests and talents. She played the violin from the age of nine and throughout her adult life she taught violin. Marsha played in the Minnesota Symphony Orchestra, the Helena Montana Symphony and the first Helena Summer Symphony. She was also active in local Quartets and the First Presbyterian Church of Helena. She actively supported Family Promise and Bridges within the Helena community.
In Marsha’s professional life, she received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Minnesota (Go Gophers!), her master’s and doctorate degree in education from Montana State University (Go Bobcats!). She taught third grade at Howe Elementary School in Minneapolis, MN for nine years and then moved to Montana to teach English as a second language to Laotians while also being a teachers substitute. She branched out and became the owner of Rocky Mountain Glass in Helena for several years. After she received her doctorate, she became the school principal in White Sulphur Springs, MT. She later moved and became the principal of East Helena Middle School and then later went to work for the Office of Public Instruction. Marsha was one busy lady and in 2001, she ran and won the local election and became the Lewis and Clark County Superintendent of Schools. After fourteen years as the superintendent of schools, she decided to retire in 2015. Now Marsha had time for hand trimming her flowers and grass borders, skiing, snowmobiling, rafting, canoeing, day and weekend motorcycle trips on the Goldwing, checking out wineries, visiting an occasional antique shop and staying in various B&B’s. Of course, Mike was by her side sharing in their adventures, travels and new experiences.
Marsha was a blessing to her friends and family who enjoyed her sense of humor, heartfelt kindnesses, patience and musical talents. Memories of baking cookies and enjoying her delicious dinners with laughter and stories will remain forever within our hearts.
Loved ones that preceded Marsha included her parents Hannah and Forest Smith (MN); her brother Craig F. Smith (MN); her mother and father-in-law Delmar and Evelyn Davis (MT); brother-in-law Brad Ganskow (NV); nephew Jacob Merritt (NV); great-nephew Thaddeus “Teddy” Hutchinson (NV); and many aunts, uncles and friends.
Marsha is survived by her husband Mike Davis (MT); sister-in-law Joyce Iwen Smith (MN); nieces Becky Beeskow (Jerry) (MN), Jennifer Von Behren (Mike) (WA) and Angela Smith (MN); brother-in-law Gary Davis (Gloria) and niece Jessica Davis (MT); sister-in-law Susan Sampson (James) (AZ) and nephew David Sampson (TX); niece Ashley McGilvray (Kirk) (CO); sister-in-law Sharon Davis (MT); nieces Krysta Theriault (MT) and Sarah Atkins (MT); Sheila Ganskow (ID); nieces Telisha Hutchinson (Tristan) (NV); Mackenzie Loeffelholz (Kurt) (WI), Olivia Mahony (Harry) (NV); Heidi Zbella (fiancé Zach Prichard) (IN); nephew Gideon Ganskow (Paige) (NV); niece Naomi Merritt (NV); twenty four great-nieces and great-nephews, and many other relatives and friends.
Memorial services will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 535 N Ewing St, Helena, MT 59601, on Wednesday, June 18th, 2025 at 11am. The family has requested no black attire. A reception will be provided at the church following the service. Condolences can be shared at www.aswfuneralhome.com in memory of Marsha.
Tom/Judy Rolfe says
Mike,
We were saddened to learn of Marsha’s passing. We remember good times in our small group Bible study and fun times at FPC. Marsha was a talented professional in everything she took on.
Please know we are thinking of you at this difficult time, you’re in our prayers, please know we care.
Patty Dahl says
A beautiful lady with a heart of gold whom I was honored to work with in the area of early childhood education. My life is better for having Marsha in it❤️ Rest in peace, dear Marsha.
Mel Dreidlein says
Mike,
I’m so sorry to hear of Marsha’s passing! Thinking of you and the family!
Jerry Knight says
So sorry to hear this! Mike, my thoughts and prayers are with you! We had some great times as kids that I will always remember! Cherish the memories of Marsha! Those were the best times provided by God for both of you! Prayers for comfort and peace during this difficult time!
Kathrine Anderson says
So sorry to hear of Marsha’s passing. She was a wonderful county superintendent who worked tirelessly for the small schools in our district and was a tremendous advocate for the teachers and staff who served those schools. Thank you for your years of dedication to the children of Lewis and Clark County.
Marcia Wall says
Marsha and I shared the same first name only spelled differently! We always enjoyed a hug and great conversation when we saw each other. She truly was a tireless advocate for children and our world. I’m truly sorry to all of her people that loved and admired her. She was a special and kind human being that will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to you Mike and family. She will be fondly remembered. Marcia
Bj Granbery says
Mike and family, I am so sorry to hear of Marsha’s passing. She was a very special and talented lady. I am thankful that she worked with us at OPI. We all thought the world of Marsha and were lucky to have known her. May her memory be a blessing.
Wally and Pep Jewell says
So sad. Pep and I had some extremely fun trips with Mike and Marsha. Dillon, San Francisco, Minneapolis.
One time in Dillon at the Fiddle Fest…well, there will be time for stories later. A truly remarkable woman. We will remember her with a smile on our faces for the memory of Marsha. She will be missed.
Diane (Blossom) Tordale says
Mike
Sory to hear about Marsha. My thoughts and prayers are with you
Jan & Bill Orsello says
Mikey, Bill and I were saddened to learn about Marsha’s passing. Visiting with her at Sampson/Davis gatherings was a joy because of her kindness and sense of humor. You’re both in our thoughts. Hugs, Jan and Bill O.
Peggy Fine says
I remember her playing the violin during worship at 1st Presbyterian church! Beautiful! She will be sorely missed. Play for Jesus. Marsha!
Robert Merritt says
I remember her as a great and wonderful lady who always had the love for life, and friendship ready to be given to anyone who needed it. Her time on Earth had blessed many, and had blesses me with knowing her, a wonderful lady, mother, daughter, and wife. Marsha will be missed, and always remembered for her love. Mike Davis, your life partner may be physically gone, but spiritually will forever be with you and God.
God called her home, her time here was done. Marsha completed Gods tasks that he had for her, may she rest in piece.
May the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit forever be with Marsha. – Amen
With Love,
Robert Merritt