By Oniska Blevins
The Selma Times-Journal

If Jean Davison is not lounging on the sofa watching old movies, she is lounging on the beach. Although she takes time to enjoy life, the self declared “people person” spends most of her time being selfless.

After retiring from Bush Hog Inc. after 36 years, Davison started volunteering with the Edmundite Missions in 2016.

Grover Henry chief programs officer for the Edmundite Missions, said Davison connects with people in a special way.

“When [people] come in they feel comfortable talking to her about some of those vulnerable things that they need and she’s able to assist it,” Henry said.

Davison volunteers at least three days a week and hangs, sorts, folds and cleans clothing donations.
Henry said there is not much Davison doesn’t do, and because of her dedication, the mission is better.

“She’s an awesome person,” Henry said. “She’s been around for several years, but one of the things that’s amazing about Jean is that if you ask her to do anything, it’s almost like she’s one of our regular paid employees.”

Aside from her normal shifts, she also works the extra programs the mission has throughout the year.
With all of the volunteer work she does, Davison never forgets her main reason to serve.

“I’ve had opportunities to pray with people,” Davison said.

Davison said in everything she does she gives honor to Christ and remembers that being a servant is the work of Christ.

“If anyone is in need I try to help them,” she said. “Trying to reach out and help somebody, that shows the love of Christ. That is one of the foundations of my life.”

The Edmundite Missions has been serving the community for 80 years. The mission serves daily meals to local citizens at their soup kitchen and also has youth programs.

“We hope to be here for 80 more years giving out services to those in need,” Henry said.

For more information on the Edmundite Missions and their services visit www.edmunditemissions.org/ or call (334) 872-2359.