CUERO: Emily Ann Ferguson Davis, beloved educator, community servant, and lifelong Cuero resident, passed away peacefully in August 2025.
Born on April 15, 1942, in Cuero, Texas, Emily graduated from Cuero High School in 1960. That same year, she married Jack Calk, and together they raised four children—her greatest joy and pride.
After starting her family, Emily pursued higher education, attending Victoria College and earning her degree from Texas State University. She later obtained her Master’s from the University of Houston. Emily dedicated 23 years to teaching Freshman English and Speech at Cuero High School, where she also directed the One Act Play, sponsored the Future Teachers Organization, and coached tennis for two years.
In 1991, Emily married Dr. John Davis. Together, they shared many adventures—traveling with the Texas Trailer Trash group and exploring Europe. Following her retirement from teaching, Emily continued her commitment to education by serving on the Cuero School Board for 18 years, including terms as President and Vice President.
Emily’s civic involvement was extensive and heartfelt. She was an active member of Cuero Hospital Volunteers, Cuero Education Foundation, DeWitt County Historical Commission, Keep Cuero Beautiful, and Rotary. She delivered Meals on Wheels for both Rotary and Grace Episcopal Church and found joy in Tuesday Mahjong games and monthly Birthday Club luncheons.
Her favorite daily ritual was walking her beloved Golden Retrievers—Napoleon (13 years), Josie (12 years), and Max—through the park and around the Little League fields. She was often seen picking up litter around the lake or cigarette butts in the HEB and Walmart parking lots, a task she embraced as part of Keep Cuero Beautiful mission.
Emily was preceded in death by her parents, Carolyn and Bill Ferguson; her daughter, Elizabeth Calk Hilbrich; and her son, William Craig Calk.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. John Davis; her sister, Betty Ferguson; her daughter, Kaye Calk Lane and husband Dutton; her son, Curtis Calk and wife Janis; grandchildren, Justin Hilbrich, William Calk, Elizabeth Juarez, and Carolyn Sager and husband Jacob; and great-grandchildren, Easton and Casey Sager, with whom she shared many playful moments.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Grace Episcopal Church, with Rev. Peter Thaddeus officiating.
Pallbearers will include Justin Hilbrich, William Calk, Jacob Sager, Steve Sager, Shelley Tarkington, and Michael Wolf.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Gonzales, Dr. Lester, and the entire medical staff at Cuero Regional Hospital for their compassionate care.
Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Episcopal Church or Pet Adoptions of Cuero.