Delores Davenport Leto

Delores Davenport Leto passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 17, 2025 at the age of 93. Her final days were spent surrounded by her family that she had touched in so many ways throughout her long, very memorable life. She was the cherished wife of 68 years to the late Alvin B. Leto Sr. Loving mother of Sharon Ragas (Bob Badaux), Paulette Battaglia (John), Rhonda Montegut (Jim), Connie Lopez (Robert) and the late Alvin B. Leto Jr. Daughter of the late Vernice Chizek and Roy Davenport. Sister of Dennis Davenport and the late Larry Davenport, Calvin Davenport, Norman Davenport and Jeanette Davenport. Half-sister of Tom Chizek. Proud grandmother of Jamie Colombo, Lisa Pradillo, Melissa Ragas, John Battaglia Jr., Christie Duggan, Amy Felder, Mindy Torres, Jamie Matthews, Gerald “Jerry” Zulli Jr., Shannon Lind and Zack Zulli. She is also survived and fondly remembered by her 27 great grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Delores was born in Des Moines, IA and was a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish before settling in Baton Rouge, LA. She was a gifted artist, best known for her beautiful porcelain dolls, each one a labor of love and intricacy. She brought warmth into the lives of others through her crocheting, often creating beautiful Mardi Gras hats for her entire family. Her passion for giving extended beyond her own family, as she regularly donated crocheted hats to cancer patients in need of care and comfort.

Family was at the heart of everything Delores did. Her Sunday meals, where she would gather her loved ones around the table, were the highlight of her week. There, surrounded by those she cherished, Delores found joy and fulfillment in the simple act of sharing a meal. Christmas was especially dear to her, as she created lasting memories with her family during the holiday season.

She found pleasure in the little things in life - whether it was enjoying French bread, fried catfish, or fried chicken, or challenging her mind with crossword puzzles. Delores also had an adventurous spirit in her younger years, enjoying sports and especially bowling, which brought her such joy.

Delores was known for her good nature, generous heart and generosity. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel loved and valued. Her legacy is one of deep compassion, loyalty, and an unshakeable bond with those she held most dear. She leaves behind a family who will forever treasure her memory and the many ways she enriched their lives. Rest in peace, dear Delores. The wonderful memories you helped create will be cherished until we meet again.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial gathering to be held at ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Saturday, April 26th from 11:30AM – 1:00PM, followed by a Memorial Mass beginning at 1:00PM. She will be laid to eternal rest with her beloved Alvin in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens.