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In Loving Memory

Davenport, Jr. David E.

David E. Davenport, Jr. of St. Louis, Missouri, a transplanted Texan, who always believed being Texan is not a place but a state of mind, left this world for his greener pastures on Thursday, July 1, 2021. Dave was born in Silsbee, Texas on June 6, 1944, to David E. Davenport, Sr. and Thelma Louise Davenport.  He was the much-adored first-born son. He excelled during high school and breezed thru undergraduate school at Larmar University in Beaumont, Texas in three years.  Graduated with a Law degree from University of Houston, additional advanced degrees from the University of Texas, University of Virginia, and was a graduate of the Forensic Medicine Fellowship at Walter Reed Army Hospital.  Dave spent 10 mostly fun filled years in the United States Army serving as a JAG Officer. His many adventures traveling the world included postings in Vietnam, Germany, Virginia, Washington D.C. and El Paso Texas. His military experience was one of the highlights of his life.

After leaving the Army, Dave accepted a Presidential Appointment with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a Regional Counsel where he continued to make a difference in the lives of Veterans and their families, serving his country for 30-plus years.

Dave was the loving husband of Sandi Davenport, father to David E. Davenport, III (Trey) of El Paso Texas and Ryan Pemberton (wife Tina) of Cleveland, Texas. Grandfather to Ryan Sales, Kristan Pemberton, Ethan Pemberton, Caiden Pemberton, Krystal Chaney, Cheyene Boyington and Justine Boyington.  Always the “big brother” to Sandra McLendon and Toni Davenport of Silsbee, Texas. Much adored uncle to Charisse Tolleson of Pasadena, California and William McLendon of Durango, CO.  Trusted confidant, advisor and friend to many.

Dave had many varying interests and one of his favorites was hunting.  Once he retired, he decided to concentrate on improve his shooting skills.  He enjoyed trap, skeet, and cowboy competition and decided to join the Arnold Rifle & Pistol Club to have a nice place to practice.  Very shortly, in a very “Dave-like manner”, he was elected as the President of the club.  He was greatly admired for his organizational and managerial skills and true passion for the success of the Arnold Rifle & Pistol Club but in the beginning many asked, “Why is a lawyer the president of a Gun Club?”  Many advances and improvements were accomplished under his direction, changing the culture and course of the club for the better.

Dave was well known for his quick wit, keen sense of humor, insight and intellect.  He was always eager to share his knowledge (whether asked for or not) and generously shared his advice and experiences when asked. He cared deeply for others, and was unselfish with his time and talents to help anyone who needed his help.

Dave left this world far better than he found it, and will be missed by scores of family, friends and all who knew him.

Services: Visitation will be held at KUTIS SOUTH COUNTY CHAPEL 5255 LEMAY FERRY RD. on Wednesday, July 7, from 10:30 a.m. until time of service at 12:30 p.m. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to The Fisher House at Jefferson Barracks VA Hospital, (www.fisherhouseinstlouis.org) or to the Arnold Rifle & Pistol Club.

Condolences

40 thoughts on “Davenport, Jr. David E.”

  1. My Mother was aways saying “Dave is so smart”. That always made it hard to insult him more than he would insult me. A truly great man that I am many more will miss.

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  2. My Mother was aways saying “Dave is so smart”. That always made it hard to insult him more than he would insult me. A truly great man that I am many more will miss.

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  3. What a most beautiful memorial of Dave’s life. Many things I did not know. So sorry for this huge loss to the family. You are in our thuggery and prayers.

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  4. What a most beautiful memorial of Dave’s life. Many things I did not know. So sorry for this huge loss to the family. You are in our thuggery and prayers.

    Reply
  5. I’msorry for your loss. No greeting card message can even come close to expressing how it feels when you lose someone you love. So, I’ll send this along with a word of friendship and caring, trust in the comfort of hope..and time.

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  6. I’msorry for your loss. No greeting card message can even come close to expressing how it feels when you lose someone you love. So, I’ll send this along with a word of friendship and caring, trust in the comfort of hope..and time.

    Reply
  7. Sandi, our hearts sad for you and your family. But we all know Dave is in a better place. His legacy will live on in the many people he encountered. He was the best story teller and could always captivate those around him. We loved his stories of his adventures in the service. He loved life and his”Texas roots”. We are out of town, but you will be in our prayers.

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  8. Sandi, our hearts sad for you and your family. But we all know Dave is in a better place. His legacy will live on in the many people he encountered. He was the best story teller and could always captivate those around him. We loved his stories of his adventures in the service. He loved life and his”Texas roots”. We are out of town, but you will be in our prayers.

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  9. Dave will be missed by many. I never will forget when he used the word, “egregious “ in out guest book at the Lake and thought I wouldn’t know what it meant. I still get a laugh out of his egregious “mistake”. He loved and cherished Sandi and spoiled her just like she liked to be and deserved to be spoiled.

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  10. Dave will be missed by many. I never will forget when he used the word, “egregious “ in out guest book at the Lake and thought I wouldn’t know what it meant. I still get a laugh out of his egregious “mistake”. He loved and cherished Sandi and spoiled her just like she liked to be and deserved to be spoiled.

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  11. Sandi, Wayne and I are sorry for your loss. Praying that God will comfort and give you peace that passes understanding.

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  12. Sandi, Wayne and I are sorry for your loss. Praying that God will comfort and give you peace that passes understanding.

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  13. Sandy,

    My friend of many years, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this time.

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  14. Sandy,

    My friend of many years, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this time.

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  15. What a lovely tribute! Heartfelt condolences to Sandi and the family. May your happy memories and the support of family and friends walk with you on this journey. God bless!

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  16. What a lovely tribute! Heartfelt condolences to Sandi and the family. May your happy memories and the support of family and friends walk with you on this journey. God bless!

    Reply
  17. Thinking of you.and hoping that each day brings a little more strength, hope and comfort for you and your family!

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  18. Thinking of you.and hoping that each day brings a little more strength, hope and comfort for you and your family!

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  19. Linda, please accept my deepest condolences. May your happy memories comfort you in your grief.
    Peggy Kalinowski
    (Monarch)

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  20. Linda, please accept my deepest condolences. May your happy memories comfort you in your grief.
    Peggy Kalinowski
    (Monarch)

    Reply
  21. Couldn’t have described him any better! No person I’ve ever known was more a true representation of America and her history. Always approaching the crowd slowly as his wheels were spinning as to what he was going to say to each and every person! Such a “jokester.” He will be dearly missed. We are thankful that we were able to spend Thanksgiving 2020 with him and Nanny Sandi. We will be waiting to see another cardinal visit out back yard! Until we meet again, Sugar!!

    Nanny Sandi,

    We are wrapping you in comfort knowing the days ahead will be tough but will get better. We love you dearly!

    The Wilbanks family
    Jason, Brandy, Mason and Maddie

    Reply
  22. Couldn’t have described him any better! No person I’ve ever known was more a true representation of America and her history. Always approaching the crowd slowly as his wheels were spinning as to what he was going to say to each and every person! Such a “jokester.” He will be dearly missed. We are thankful that we were able to spend Thanksgiving 2020 with him and Nanny Sandi. We will be waiting to see another cardinal visit out back yard! Until we meet again, Sugar!!

    Nanny Sandi,

    We are wrapping you in comfort knowing the days ahead will be tough but will get better. We love you dearly!

    The Wilbanks family
    Jason, Brandy, Mason and Maddie

    Reply
  23. Sandi, I am so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing….hugs and prayers to you and your family during this very difficult time.

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  24. Sandi, I am so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing….hugs and prayers to you and your family during this very difficult time.

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  25. What a great tribute to a wonderful man! Sending love and prayers to you and your family Sandi. The ladies at Heritage also send their condolences. We loved when Dave came in to tell us all about Yellowstone, one of his hunting stories, or how or what we should be driving. He was a highlight to our day and brought us many laughs.

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  26. What a great tribute to a wonderful man! Sending love and prayers to you and your family Sandi. The ladies at Heritage also send their condolences. We loved when Dave came in to tell us all about Yellowstone, one of his hunting stories, or how or what we should be driving. He was a highlight to our day and brought us many laughs.

    Reply
  27. Sandy so sorry for your loss of your husband Dave Sending you condolences to you and your family. Praying for you and your family during this time of loss. Carla

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  28. Sandy so sorry for your loss of your husband Dave Sending you condolences to you and your family. Praying for you and your family during this time of loss. Carla

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  29. May care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead. Our most sincere condolences to you and your family.
    Madu & Harsha

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  30. May care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead. Our most sincere condolences to you and your family.
    Madu & Harsha

    Reply
  31. Sandi, I’m quite sure you would not remember me…but I met you when I was a young kid in my 20s just starting my VA career back in 1999-2000. I had the honor of working with Dave building a new VA system and that system is still running after 22 years. He saw some talent in me and was a mentor and great friend. I’ve missed him since he left VA and now I miss him more. I remember his fondness for hunting, being a Texan and, strangely, always playing a devils advocate when we were talking politics. If I was explaining a liberal point of view, he’d take the conservative one. If I’d take a conservative view, he’d take the liberal one. I don’t know why that’s always stuck in my mind but I remember saying to him “You’re a typical Lawyer! Agree with me on something!” I’ve told that story several times over the year talking of him. From a young kid back in the 90s, thank you for your hospitality at your home then and living room watching the “Gladiator” movie on a new home audio system he recently purchase. I remember many details and I really miss Dave and his Texas twang. I wish I could’ve let him know. God Bless You Sandi…many prayers.

    Reply
  32. Sandi, I’m quite sure you would not remember me…but I met you when I was a young kid in my 20s just starting my VA career back in 1999-2000. I had the honor of working with Dave building a new VA system and that system is still running after 22 years. He saw some talent in me and was a mentor and great friend. I’ve missed him since he left VA and now I miss him more. I remember his fondness for hunting, being a Texan and, strangely, always playing a devils advocate when we were talking politics. If I was explaining a liberal point of view, he’d take the conservative one. If I’d take a conservative view, he’d take the liberal one. I don’t know why that’s always stuck in my mind but I remember saying to him “You’re a typical Lawyer! Agree with me on something!” I’ve told that story several times over the year talking of him. From a young kid back in the 90s, thank you for your hospitality at your home then and living room watching the “Gladiator” movie on a new home audio system he recently purchase. I remember many details and I really miss Dave and his Texas twang. I wish I could’ve let him know. God Bless You Sandi…many prayers.

    Reply

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