Joseph "Joe" Thompson Davenport

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joseph Thompson Davenport, Sr., 82, of Florence, Mississippi, who peacefully entered into eternal rest on August 19, 2024, after a courageous battle with a long illness. Joe was born on October 13, 1941, in Claiborne County to the loving parents Jessie Bryan Davenport and Florence Nelson Davenport. His life was a testament to faith, family and hard work.

A proud graduate of Florence High School in 1960, Joe built a remarkable career in surveying engineering, starting at Michael Baker Engineering, then moving on to Smith and Sanders, and later becoming a co-owner of Browning Engineering. His work was driven by a deep sense of integrity and a commitment to excellence, values he carried throughout his life.

On June 27, 1964, Joe's life was forever changed when he met Evone Ard at a stock car race in Jackson, Mississippi. From that day forward, they embarked on a 59-year journey filled with love, laughter and unwavering devotion. Their union was blessed with a son, Joseph Thompson Davenport Jr., who became the center of their world.

In 2002, Joe retired and found his true joy on the family farm in New Hebron, Mississippi. To Joe, the farm was more than just land; it was a place where character was forged, and lessons were passed down. He delighted in teaching his grandchildren, Brooks and Breelyn, the values he cherished - hard work, honesty and the simple pleasures of life. Joe's heart overflowed with pride and joy as he watched them grow, never missing a sporting event, dance recital, or opportunity to remind them how deeply they were loved.

Joseph Thompson Davenport, Sr.'s legacy of love and dedication endures through his devoted wife, Evone Davenport, whose steadfast partnership was a cornerstone of his life; his beloved son, Joseph Thompson Davenport, Jr. (Loren) of Brandon, Mississippi, who carries forward his father's principles and values; and his cherished grandchildren, Joseph Brooks Davenport (Kaitlyn) of Grove City, Ohio, and Breelyn Nicole Davenport of Brandon, Mississippi (fiance David Thaggard of Jackson, Mississippi), who were a source of immense pride and joy. His memory also lives on in the hearts of his three loving sisters, Martha Ion Oswalt of Florence, Mississippi, Elizabeth Ann Owens of Pearl, Mississippi, and Patricia Lynn Bozeman of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, as well as his dear brother, Jesse Bryant Davenport, Jr., of Hermanville, Mississippi. His presence will be deeply missed by a host of adoring nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, whose lives were touched by his kindness and generosity. The warmth of his spirit will forever remain with those who knew and loved him.

Though his presence will be profoundly missed, the love he poured into his family will continue to nurture them for generations to come.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie and Florence Davenport; his brothers, Richard Henry Davenport and Kenneth Ray Davenport; and his sisters, Hettie Florence Davenport and Emily Jewel Bailey. He now rests in the loving arms of the Lord, reunited with those who have gone before him.

A celebration of Joe's life will be held on August 24, 2024, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl, Mississippi. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., with a service to follow at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel. Joe will be laid to rest at Floral Hills Memory Gardens in Pearl, Mississippi.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/give/memorials-and-dedications/donation-in-honor-of-someone.html or a charity close to your heart. Joe's life was a blessing to all who knew him, and his love will continue to light our way.