Barbara Ann Davenport

Barbara Ann (Betts) Davenport, lovingly referred to as "Bobbie" by her father and extended family, was born on June 23, 1950 in Chicago, Illinois to Lillia Phillips Betts and Homer Betts, Sr. Though her roots began in Chicago, she spent many cherished years of childhood in Crockett's Bluff, Arkansas, surrounded by her siblings and the loving guidance of her grandparents, Lillian Smith and Jarvis Phillips, Sr. The family farm there remains a lasting symbol of those formative times.

Barbara's commitment to education blossomed early in life. She excelled academically in Arkansas and later attended Arkansas AM&N College (now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff). It was there that she met her husband, Dwight David Davenport, Sr (deceased). Together, they built a life in Chicago, IL, raising three children: Narrion Sherese Davenport, Michelle Juanita (Davenport) Vickers, and Dwight David Davenport, Jr.

After returning to Chicago, Barbara dedicated herself to work and family- first as a stay-at-home mom, then producing uniforms, manufacturing matchbooks, and then she found her passion for teaching. Driven by her love for mathematics and education, she earned a Bachelors degree in mathematics from Chicago State University and transitioned that into a full-time teaching career. Her journey in education included roles within the Archdiocese as a substitute teacher, Principal at Park Vernon Academy, and her career extended into championing STEM programs for underserved youth in the Chicago Public Schools-a cause she passionately believed in.

Barbara found true joy in travel. Whether road-tripping to Arkansas with her siblings or flying across states to visit her beloved grandchildren, Daylyn Anthony Vickers and Makena Davenport, she treasured every moment. Often times you could hear family calling out lovingly to "Auntie Barb" or overheard friends and family greet her as "Barb" while she was hosting an event, working on the barbecue grill or even when playing cards - which she truly enjoyed. Her warmth, wisdom, and laughter created memories that will echo for generations.

Barbara is survived by her three children: Narrion Sherese Davenport, Michelle Juanita (Davenport) Vickers, and Dwight David Davenport, Jr., two grandchildren: Daylyn Anthony Vickers; Makena Davenport, and her siblings: Shirley (Betts) Webb, (Brosie), Homer Donald Betts, Jr; Veleese (Smith) Kilpatrick, James Justin Smth, Jr., and Beatrice Smith-Redd (Dr. DeAndre Redd). Barbara leaves behind a loving extended family filled with aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends-all touched by her grace and generosity.

Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Funeral Services for Barbara A. Davenport:

Location:
Gatling's Chapel
10133 S. Halsted Street
Chicago, IL, 60628

Time/Dates:
Friday, August 15, 2025
Private Viewing: 2pm - 3pm
Public Viewing: 3pm - 6pm

Saturday, August 16, 2025
Visitation: 11am
Funeral: 11:30am - 12:30pm