Charlene Fox Davenport

Charlene Fox Davenport, age 85, entered the kingdom of heaven early Tuesday morning, February 28, 2023. Born in Raleigh, North Carolina, Charlene was daughter to Charles Fox and Ruth Finch, as well as her stepmother, Ruth Cathey Fox. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Dean Davenport; two children, Stephen Davenport and Catherine Davenport; brother, Charles Fox; sister, Val Jean Fox; sister-in law, Jane Fox; daughter-in-law, Marie Davenport; three grandchildren, Taylor Hughes, Nathaniel Davenport, and Roger Halliburton; two great-grandchildren, Harper Hughes and Benjamin Hughes; as well as many nieces and nephews. Charlene devoted her life to the service of others. After receiving her degree in education at Meredith College, she went on to become a public school educator, beloved by colleagues and students alike. Dean and Charlene met in 1965 while he was in the Navy stationed at Virginia Beach, where she was teaching. It was love at first sight and they were married that same year on October 9th. Their lives throughout Dean’s business career allowed them to live in many regions of the United States, including Washington State, California, and North Carolina, Charlene teaching in each state they resided. They finally settled down in Oviedo, Florida, where she taught at Lawton Elementary for over a decade. There, she served as team leader for many years, was awarded teacher of the year, was selected to go to Hong Kong as an exchange teacher, and founded the LESA Garden. As an educator of over 40 years, she influenced the lives of countless children. She retired in 2000, but continued to substitute teach until 2004, when she dedicated herself to being a Grammy, and continued to be a dedicated and loving wife and mother. The First United Methodist Church of Oviedo was her church home for several decades; there, Charlene served many roles, including that of Stephen Minister. A memorial service will take place at the First United Methodist Church of Oviedo on March 11, 2023 at 11:00am, and a reception will follow. Family and friends are welcome to join in celebrating Charlene and her lifelong legacy of love

Charlene Fox Davenport

March 7, 1937 - February 28, 2023