What's Happening?
Elizabeth Ann 'Liz' Davey, an 82-year-old resident of Norfolk, passed away peacefully at home on October 17, 2026. Born on May 24, 1944, in Niles, Michigan, Liz was the daughter of Alton and Mary Miller. She earned a bachelor's degree in nutrition and a master's
degree in food science from Michigan State University, where she met her husband, Jim. The couple married in March 1965 and moved to Norfolk in 1971. Liz was a prominent community figure, known for her passion for gardening, which she shared through 139 episodes of 'A Walk in the Garden with Liz Davey' on Norfolk Cable Television (NCTV). She also served on the NCTV board of directors for many years and was a long-time member and president of the Garden Club of Norfolk. Liz was also celebrated for her baking, particularly her Christmas cookies and carrot cake, and her skills as a sewer and quilter. In 2010, she received a kidney donation from her friend, Carol Greene, extending her life by 16 years. Her final gift was donating her body to Harvard Medical School. A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, November 11, at the Federated Church of Norfolk.
Why It's Important?
The passing of Elizabeth 'Liz' Davey marks the loss of a dedicated community member whose contributions significantly enriched the town of Norfolk. Her work with NCTV and the Garden Club of Norfolk fostered local engagement and beautification, leaving a lasting legacy in the community's public spaces and media. Her passion for gardening and baking brought joy and connection to many, while her personal story of receiving a life-saving kidney donation highlights the profound impact of organ donation and community support. Liz's decision to donate her body to Harvard Medical School underscores her commitment to education and scientific advancement, even in death. Her life exemplifies active citizenship and the power of individual passions to benefit a wider community.
What's Next?
A celebration of Liz Davey's life is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Wednesday, November 11, at the Federated Church of Norfolk. Prior to the service, family and friends are invited to gather for calling hours and refreshments from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be sent to Compassionate Care ALS (CCALS). The community will continue to remember her through the gardens she cultivated, her television show, and the many lives she touched with her baking and quilting. Her legacy will likely inspire continued community involvement in gardening, local media, and charitable giving.
Beyond the Headlines
Liz Davey's life story offers a poignant reflection on the enduring impact of an individual's passions and generosity. Her dedication to gardening not only transformed public spaces but also created a platform for community education through her TV show, demonstrating how local media can be a powerful tool for sharing knowledge and fostering hobbies. The narrative of her kidney donation highlights the critical importance of organ donation and the selfless acts of friendship that can extend life. Furthermore, her final act of donating her body to science speaks to a profound commitment to the greater good, contributing to medical research and education. Her life serves as an example of how a person can leave a multifaceted and positive imprint on their community through various forms of engagement and giving.
