Davis Hoffman-Roach

March 3, 1948–July 31, 2003

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the death of Davis, wife of Reverend Paul John Roach, in the summer of 2003. She was an integral part of the church for fifteen years and we know that her spirit of creativity and love will continue to bless us in the years ahead.

Davis and Paul came to Unity Fort Worth in September 1988 when it was a small and struggling community. From the beginning, Davis shared her gift of leading meditations and being a calm graceful presence on Sunday mornings. At the time, she was heavily involved in her own career as a speech pathologist, as well as minister’s wife.

Over the years, her involvement in Unity increased. She gave ever more inspiring sermons, she established our drama ministry, Unity Players, and wrote and directed ten plays. She also wrote and directed children’s plays at Christmas and Easter.

Davis liked to say that she served in every aspect of the church’s life from youth education director, to singer in the Unity Singers and ensembles, to volunteer in the office and garden, to Paul’s most important and ever faithful support.

For many years, the Language Action Center, a day group for the head injured which Davis directed, met at the church. It was a vital and important work.

Permanent Endowment for Oncology Nurses and Davis’ Bench

As part of Davis’ legacy, an endowment fund was set up through Cancer Care Services to benefit oncology nurses in Tarrant County. The endowment provides for continuing training, days of renewal, volunteer help, etc. Thanks to memorial gifts and donations from friends and supporters, the fund received over $21,000.

Each year an award is given in Davis’ name to the Oncology Nurse of the Year at the annual Cancer Care Services dinner. In addition, plans are underway to support oncology nurses through holistic programs and other ventures.

If you would like to make a donation to this endowment in honor of Davis and in celebration of the work of oncology nurses in our area, you can send a gift directly to Cancer Care Services (specify its use).

Paul and Miriam installed a bench in honor of Davis Hoffman-Roach on a beautiful stretch of the Trinity River between Bailey Street and University Drive. The bench was consecrated at a ceremony held by friends of Davis on the first anniversary of her death on July 31, 2004.