Deanna Davis, 71, of Valparaiso passed away suddenly on Thursday, January 16, 2025. She was born September 25, 1953 in Gary, Indiana to Edward & Dori (nee Shaw) Schultz and graduated from Merrillville High School in 1972. Deanna made her career as a Master Photographer with Barry’s Photography in Valparaiso for over 25 years. She had been recognized by the Professional Photographers of Indiana as the Photographer of the Year for her outstanding images as well as receiving an award from the Office of Governor Frank O’Bannon honoring her as a Distinguished Hoosier. Graduating high school seniors sought out her talents for decades to commemorate their achievement and continued their gratitude with compliments to succeeding generations. Deanna was a member of American Legion Post #94 Auxiliary where she especially enjoyed volunteering for the Toys for Tots project each year. Her caving exploits in younger years are well-remembered along with all the good times that were had camping with their Corgis.
On March 17, 1971 she married the love of her life and best friend, Donald Davis, Jr. who survives along with their children: Donald (Lisa) Davis, III of Auburn, Kentucky, Juliet (Robert) Gudgel of San Antonio, Texas, Stephanie Lundy of Valparaiso, her mother, Dori Schultz of Lenoir, North Carolina, siblings: Sue (Anthony) Kloc, Karen (Don) Comiskey, Michael Schultz, grandsons: William Lundy, III & Robert Gudgel, II, and granddaughters, Meghan (Sam) Stauffer & Catherine Lundy. She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Schultz.
Following cremation at Angelcrest Crematory a celebration of life will be announced for a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Porter County Animal Shelter.
GUESTBOOK
So sorry for your loss. Deanna was a sweet and wonderful woman. We are all blessed to have known her. -Mike and Pam Skaltsas
I am so sorry for your loss. Wish I had the words to make this better. -Chris Martel
Our sincere condolences to Don and the family. She was an amazing lady and we will miss her. -Alan and Katie Payne
My deepest sympathies to Don and all of Deanna’s family. She was a dear friend who I will miss very much. I will hold onto all the wonderful memories I have of all our adventures, -Cindy Mundell
Janet and I are sending our Prayers and our deepest sympathies to Don, Children and Deanna’s entire Family. May God be with you. -The Atkinson’s
Deanna was a sparky sweet woman with a ready smile and laugh. She loved Don and her family and her active presence at the American Legion made all feel welcome. Deanna’s contribution was greatly appreciated Sincere condolences to her family and Legion Sincerely, -Marcia and Joe Illig
We are sorry to hear about Deanna. We have many great memories of her over the years. -Jeff and Laura Lundy
Dear Donnie, Stephanie and Family: Deanna was a wonderful lady and very talented. She will be missed by so many people with the lives she touched. Sending much love and hugs. May she rest in peace in the arms of the lord. -Lenny Corso
My condolences to the family. God bless you all. -Tom Hampson
Everyone loved Deanna. We are going to miss her smiles, laugh, and loving ways. God be with you and your family. -Charlie Hicks
Our sincerest condolences to Donnie and family and all of her friends that she’s left a mark on throughout her life. She was lovely inside and out. Sweet and caring and so giving. I’m blessed to have known her. Rest in Peace, Deanna. -Robyn and Tom Frailey
