Rita E. Davenport

Rita E. Davenport, 81, of St. Johnsbury, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025 at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital.

Rita was born on October 17, 1944, in St. Johnsbury to Guy & Mildred (Daniell) Davenport. She spent most of her life in St. Johnsbury, graduating with the St. Johnsbury Academy class of 1963 before working as a waitress at the Coffee Cup in Danville, as a switchboard operator at Brightlook Hospital, and as a dispatcher at the St. Johnsbury Police Department.

Rita was a quiet, humble person who found meaning in the simple joys of life. She was known for her sense of humor, even in difficult moments. She enjoyed playing cards, going to Bingo, and her cats. She was a huge Kenny Rogers fan and enjoyed her trip to see him in concert at Foxwoods. Although we are saddened by losing her, Rita would be happy to know that she does not have to endure another cold Vermont winter even again!

Rita is survived by her children Roland (Denise) Bigelow of Danville & Donna Stetson of St. Johnsbury, grandchildren Kadyn Garcia, Amythest Therrien, Cindy Garcia, and Christian Garcia; as well as her five great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, Guy & Mildred Davenport; her five siblings Lorraine Sharlow, Guy Davenport, Stanley Davenport, Dorrance Davenport, and Eleanor Willey; as well as the father of her children, Donald Bigelow.

There will be no services at this time. The family wishes to express thanks to the St. Johnsbury Meals on Wheels Program for their dedicated service to Rita.

Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at caledonialifeservices.com