Davina Renae Skelton-DeSapio was born in Lufkin, Texas, to the late Kenneth David Skelton and the late Sandra Oleta Ward. The oldest of more than fifteen children, she spent her childhood and teenage years in Lufkin and time in Mississippi. In her 20s, Davina moved to Louisiana, where she eventually made Shreveport her home.
Throughout her life, Davina worked in many occupations, but her favorite and most meaningful role was that of a caregiver, lovingly serving the elderly and individuals with disabilities. She was known for her smile that truly lit up every room and an infectious laugh that brought joy to any conversation. Davina had a way of loving that made people feel deeply cared for. She loved her family dearly, and if you were her friend, then you were her family. She gave her heart fully to those she loved. She possessed a pure soul endowed with a generous and empathetic heart with an extraordinary ability to make lasting connections and friends wherever she went.
In 2006, Davina gave her life to Christ and became a born-again Christian. In 2016, she met James DeSapio, and the two spent time growing together, attending Word of God church, and building a life rooted in faith and love. Davina enjoyed traveling with her husband James, she would always swell up with glee when he would sing along to the radio as they drove. Together, they would attend concerts, go to the movies, spend the day fishing, or just sit on the porch watching the hummingbirds sip on their nectar and colorful birds flutter around the feeders. She loved the outdoors, admiring God's beautiful creation. She would always refer to a crescent moon as the Cheshire cat. They often spoke of the extraordinary animals God created and their inborn instincts and behaviors. She never wanted dogs, but she grew to love James's little hounds and would get tickled when she could get them stirred up and talking. But, what she cherished most of all were her sweet grandchildren, spending time with Brayden, Skyler, Bryce, and Kynsley brought her endless joy and happiness.
Her laughter, warmth, and quiet strength will be missed more than words can express. Though she is no longer with us, the love she shared and the memories she created will remain forever in our hearts. While our hearts grieve her loss, we find peace in knowing she is now resting in the presence of Jesus, embraced by eternal love and enjoying the splendors of heaven.
Davina was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth David Skelton and Sandra Oleta Ward, and by her sisters Rebecca Skelton, Dana McLeod and her nieces, Johnnie Fowler and Felicia Fowler.
She is survived by her loving husband, James DeSapio; her children Chris Blancett, Kayla Mapp, and Tifany Ortiz; and her cherished grandchildren Brayden Robbins, Skylar Grace Blancett, Bryce Blancett, Kynsley Blancett, and Tyson Mapp. She is also survived by her siblings David Skelton, Melissa Cox, Dee Kirby, Roy Rogers, Teri Sprinkle, Jason Skelton, Ashley Todd, Shelby Faremouth, and Kimberly Skelton, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date for family and friends.
