Davis, Guelda B.

Guelda B. Davis, 88, a r esident of Windover House in Randolph, VT, died February 16, 2021 f ollowing a stroke. Guelda was born June 26, 1932, in Franklin, VA, and was t he oldest child of William Franklin and Marjorie ( Oliver) Banks. Guelda attended segregated schools i n Franklin and earned her degree in Mathematics with Honors f r om Virginia State College ( now University) at age 19. Graduating i n the 1950s with a strong background in math was a blessing for Guelda, as she entered the burgeoning field of computer science. Much l i ke the Black f emale "computers" i n the movie "Hidden Figures," Guelda spent several years in the early 1950s working as a programmer for the government. During her time with the Army Defense Mapping Agency, she was entrusted with charting coordinates for the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Following her time with the government, Guelda moved from Washington, DC, to Hartford, CT and married Ralph F. Davis. The couple had two children, James and Karen, and settled i n Granby, CT. For nearly 30 years, Guelda worked for Connecticut General Insurance, (which later became Cigna), as a senior systems analyst.

After r etiring early, Guelda pursued her l ove of t ravel, visiting all 50 states and a great number of countries and continents. Guelda was a l ong-time member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority. She also played i n several bridge clubs in and around Hartford, CT.

Guelda is survived by her children, J ames ( Kathy Hampton) Davis ( Willington, CT), and Karen ( Kevin) McGinty of Randolph, VT. Due to COVID restrictions, there will be no service or calling hours. Guelda's ashes will be spread later in the summer. Online condolences may be left at www.dayfunerals.com. Arrangements by Day Funeral Home in Randolph, VT.

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