James Michael Davenport

James Michael Davenport, born on October 27, 1964, in Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on February 23, 2026, in his hometown. He lived a life marked by resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping others, serving as a guiding light for many in the challenging journey of recovery.

Jim began his professional career as a car salesman, where his charm and wit were evident. However, it was his remarkable journey through addiction and subsequent recovery that defined much of his life. After a long battle, Jim found sobriety eight years prior to his passing, a triumph he credited to his faith, the Prospect House, and Alcoholics Anonymous. He served as an Outreach Coordinator and Client Advocate at the Prospect House, dedicating his time to support those navigating their own paths to sobriety. His devotion to recovery earned him the revered infinity coin, symbolizing his unwavering commitment to the journey.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jim's love for his family shone brightly. He had two daughters, Kristen (Thomas) McMullen and Cortney Davenport, whom he cherished deeply. His joy extended to his grandchildren, Brayden and Corbin McMullen, as well as Cassius, Ashton, Alissa, Amarie, Victor, and Lanaeya Inlow. Jim was known for his exceptional athleticism during his youth, shining in both football and baseball during high school. His sisters fondly recall hours spent watching him refine his diving skills in a motel swimming pool in Florida, a testament to the joy and camaraderie shared among the family.

A daily ritual for Jim involved calling his beloved mother, Barbara Vanlandingham, every morning to check in on her day and express his love. He enjoyed cooking and the happiness it brought to family and friends.  Furthermore, Jim's passion for sports remained a noteworthy aspect of his life, particularly in sharing moments with his mother while watching football and baseball games.

In addition to his immediate family, Jim is survived by his siblings—Cathleen Johnson, Karen Campbell, Andrea Dolida, and Matthew Davenport—and his step-mother, Marilyn Davenport. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and a close-knit circle of friends, including Matt Maudlin, Brian Hart, Bob Payne, and Angelo Schneider.

Jim faced illness with the remarkable strength and courage that resonated with those who knew him. Diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the head and neck in 2021, he endured numerous surgeries along with chemotherapy and radiation treatments, displaying admirable resilience throughout this difficult period.

The family takes immense pride in Jim's triumphant journey toward sobriety and his dedication to lifting others as he climbed. Though he will be profoundly missed, his legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering support for those in need will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. James Michael Davenport's spirit will live on in the hearts he touched and in the countless lives he inspired.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim's name to The Prospect House at 682 Avenue, Cincinnati, OH  45205 or to this link https://theprospecthouse.org/donate/