Fred Davenport, Jr.

Fred Davenport, Jr. was born February 16, 1935 to the late Fred and Stella (McKinley) Davenport of Oglethorpe County, Georgia.  He departed this earthly life on February 5, 2021 at Kindred Hospice with his family by his side.  Fred was educated in the Oglethorpe County School System.  At an early age, he joined Russell Chapel AME Church in Lexington, GA.  During the 2020 pandemic, he enjoyed outdoor services at New Spring Hill Baptist Church, Philomath, GA.

On July 23, 1959, he was united in matrimony to Essie Saylors. They were married 60 glorious years; he was a kind and loving husband. Essie preceded him in death and their love story continues as they unite in heaven. 

Fred “Boot’” was not a stranger to anyone he met. He loved watching sports in person and on television with his group of friends known as “the faithful fan crew”. So well-known that they were a front-page story featured in the hometown newspaper. Boot was the “go to guy” in the community. He loved an appreciated his family and instilled strong values to his children to treat everybody right. Fred retired from University of Georgia Continuing Education Center and the Oliver Rubber Company.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Lola “Baby Doll” (Davenport) Smith.

He leaves to cherish his memories to his children, Emma Jean Walter (Eddie) Crawford, GA, Shirley Raines (Napoleon) Philadelphia, PA, Brenda Huff, Athens, GA, Wallace Hopp (Melanie) Athens, GA, Fred Davenport, III, Athens, GA, Shandle “Lynn” (Pelham) Williams, Johns Creek, GA, Rhonda Faye Davenport, Atlanta, GA, and Freddie Davenport (Hodiah), Stone Mountain, GA; two sisters, Sarah Butler, Winter Park, FL and Georgia Ann Bloodsaw (Clarence), Athens, GA; one brother, Johnny Lumpkin, Decatur, GA; a devoted godson, Robert “Pete” Smith; eleven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

For this is what the Lord says: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

Matthew 5:4 NIV