Libby Sumrall Davenport

Mary Elizabeth Sumrall Davenport, age 84, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 6, 2025, in Russellville, with her family lovingly by her side. She was born on August 7, 1941, in Ruston, Louisiana, the oldest child of the late James Thomas and Elizabeth R. Sumrall.

She graduated from Bolton High School in Alexandria, Louisiana, followed by earning a degree in Education from Louisiana Tech University and an M.S. in Education from Indiana University. After several years of teaching, Libby stayed at home to raise her beloved children. Together with Ron, she enjoyed a happy and contented life in a house built in the woods of Vienna, Louisiana, filled with many assorted animals, a large chicken yard, a productive garden and orchard, a greenhouse, and extended family close by. Traveling to visit Ron's family in Arizona and California was always a special treat for the Davenports. Volunteer work was always important to Libby. She volunteered with her church and visited nursing homes in three states. Libby served as President of Chapter AO, P.E.O. in Louisiana; the Louisiana Faculty Wives Club; and the Ruston Garden Club. She was a Cub Scout leader while Tom was involved in Scouting. Libby loved teaching Sunday School and helping with Vacation Bible School. An avid birdwatcher, Libby participated in a number of Audubon Christmas Counts, including a frigid watch in Wyoming. She enjoyed making quilts and met with a group of quilters for many years in Louisiana. Many immediate family members have a quilt lovingly made by Libby. She and Ron also enjoyed traveling all over North America in their camper. Libby was an active member of Russellville First United Methodist Church, the Cornerstone Sunday School Class, and the United Women of Faith (formerly United Methodist Women), where she was recognized as a 50-year member at the 2024 Arkansas Conference meeting. She was an Arkansas Hospice volunteer, a lifetime member of Pope County Master Gardeners, and a Chapter CG, P.E.O. Golden Girl.

Libby was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was loved by all who met her.

Libby is survived by her devoted husband of 59 years, Ron; her children, Thomas (Priscilla) Davenport of Sheridan, and Sally Anne (Scott) Spillane of Athens, Georgia; grandchildren, Corey Davenport (Laurel), Alex Davenport (Kylie), and Maggie Elizabeth Spillane; great-grandchildren, William and Monroe Davenport, as well as Lee Thomas Davenport; sister, Margaret Anne Emory; and brother, Tom Sumrall (Martha), both of Ruston, Louisiana.

A memorial service will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Russellville First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dr. Tony Griffin officiating under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville. A private burial for the family will be at the family plot in Greenwood Cemetery in Ruston, Louisiana.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Manna House, a ministry of the First United Methodist Church, 304 South Commerce Ave., Russellville, Arkansas 72801.

The family would like to thank the ICU nurses of St. Mary's Hospital for their compassionate care and kindness during Libby's final days. Special thanks also to Dr. Shuja Rasool, Libby's heart doctor.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.shinnfuneral.com.