Mary Virginia (Jennie) Davenport

Family and friends are mourning the loss of Mary Virginia "Jennie" Stewart Davenport on April 24, 2012. She was deeply admired for her kind and generous nature, her devotion to her family, and her tenacity in the face of life's challenges. She was born in early 1919, in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, to Francis "Frank" Irwin Stewart, Sr. and Mary Florence Johnston Stewart, who later moved their family to Georgia. After graduating from Marietta HS in 1937, Virginia became a comptometer operator, and served as a Red Cross volunteer during WWII. Her strong desire to help others led her, at the age of 40, to fulfill her lifelong dream by earning her credentials to become a licensed practical nurse. She continued her training to become a certified AMA Ophthalmic Medical Assistant in 1974 and worked many years for Dr. Cyrus H. Stoner at Georgia Baptist, as well as for Alfred Agrin, M.D. As a young, urban, female professional in the 1950s, Virginia was active in the Atlanta Business Women's League where she established many lasting friendships. In addition to her professional career, Virginia enjoyed many hobbies and belonged to several clubs with like-minded friends. She enjoyed crocheting and sewing and was an avid gardener, doll collector, and animal lover. In 1952, Virginia married Walker Jerome "Tim" Davenport and moved to Clarkston, Georgia. They enjoyed 40 years of loving devotion before his passing in 1993. Virginia was also preceded to heaven by her beloved sister, Lucille Stewart Beeson, brother, Frank Irwin Stewart, Jr., and great-nephew Winn Stewart. She was survived by her niece, Marcia Rabb, and nephew Frank I. Stewart, III, their spouses, Bobby Rabb and Shirley Stewart, their children, and many great-great nieces and nephews. On her husband's side of the family, Virginia was survived by her sister-in law, Iris Saunders Davenport and two nieces, Deborah Saunders Davenport (son, Adam Davenport) and Melanie Gail Davenport (spouse, Robert Yother). Also mourning her passing are her devoted caregivers, Norma Harbin, Geneva Beaty, and Brenda Bond. The funeral service will be held in the chapel of A. S. Turner and Sons on Sunday, April 29 at 3:00 pm with Dr. Robert Darby officiating. Entombment, Melwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a donation in honor of Virginia Davenport to the American Heart Association or the Humane Society of the United States. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at A. S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory.

Funeral Home:
A. S. Turner & Sons
2773 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA
30033