Jean Marie Davidson

Davidson, Jean Marie age 68, passed away at her home in Edina, MN on June 28. She was born on June 10, 1952, in Minneapolis to Carroll and Mildred (Sather) Davidson. She attended Edina schools, graduating from Edina High School in 1970. Jean went on to Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, and graduated in 1974 with a major in PE and Health. In 1988 she earned her Masters Degree in School Counseling from SCSU. Jean devoted her professional career to public education. She taught health, PE and coached in Atwater for 14 years. She then served as school counselor in Windom (2 years) and continued her counseling career at Hopkins High School for the next 24 years until her retirement. Her students benefited from her vast knowledge of post-secondary education options, her advocacy and wise counsel, and her ability to instill confidence. One of the mantras that defined her was "Progress, not perfection." Jean built many strong relationships with students and colleagues, always willing to go the extra mile to assist, advise and connect on a personal basis. Jean was a welcoming hostess who loved to cook and bake. She is fondly remembered for her Swedish meatballs, flatbread, and trays of Christmas goodies. Jean was active at her beloved Mount Olivet, particularly in the music department, taking great pride in singing in the Senior Choir. She served a few years as a cook at the church's annual summer camp (Cathedral of the Pines) at Lutsen. She could always be counted on for bringing food, making goodie bags for the choir during Holy Week, and helping out with the Rally Sunday potluck. Her interest in music was evidenced early on, playing clarinet in her high school and college bands. Later she participated in the Hopkins Community Band after returning to live in Edina. Photography was another of Jean's passions. She frequently snapped pictures at family gatherings and enjoyed sharing them with the attendees. The North Shore was one of her favorite locales to capture some extraordinary landscape and wildlife photos. Jean's wide array of interests also included golfing, pottery class, and traveling extensively (China, Europe & many states). Jean's greatest gift, however, was her genuine interest in people and her uncanny ability to draw out what others needed to express. She'll be remembered for her quick wit, generosity, and her kind and compassionate spirit. Jean is preceded in death by her father, Carroll & her mother, Mildred and many aunts and uncles. She is survived by several cousins, as well as countless friends. Memorials will be given to Mount Olivet's Music Department. Private services will be held at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, 5025 Knox Ave. S., Minneapolis on July 10 at 11:00 a.m. Friends may sign a register book immediately following the service from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the church main sanctuary entrance. Service will be live streamed on Jean's webpage on the Washburn-McReavy web page. Interment follows the service at Lakewood Cemetery. Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996