John Davenport
Alton |
John Todd Davenport, 55, died at 6:20 a.m. Monday, May 6, 2024 at La Bella of Alton. Born January 15, 1969 in Alton, he was the son of Monica J. (Todd) Davenport of Alton and the late Orris Gene Davenport. Along with his mother, he is survived by many cousins and also his many fraternity brothers and their families and other friends. He was preceded in death by his father and his sister, Julie Davenport. After graduating from Alton High School, John pursued his dream of being an architect and attended Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, where he was affectionately known as ‘Chip’. Like many of us, John realized his dreams had changed and decided to focus his education on Political Science and History. John eventually received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ball State University. While at university John was involved in many campus organizations and grew popular amongst the student body. John pledged Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity his freshman year where he made many lifelong friends and was eventually elected fraternity president. After graduating from university, John pursued a career in administration at two different universities where he touched many lives by encouraging the students to grow as adults and seek their future careers.
John was an avid trivia whiz, he loved to read and collect books. He was well traveled from Maine to Alaska and throughout Europe. His dream of being on the television show Jeopardy was nearly realized but he didn't make the final round - his friends jokingly decided that he was smarter than the other contestants and would win all the money.
John was diagnosed with cancer five years ago, which he met with bravery - John never said 'why me'', he continued to be cheerful in the face of adversity. John will be remembered for these traits - wit, humor, loyalty and bravery. He was the best of people and we all deserved to spend more time with this special person. John's family, many fraternity brothers, their families, and friends will cherish their memories with him for the rest of their lives.
A celebration of John’s life is set for 1:00 pm on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at Community Christian Church in Alton, IL. We invite anyone who knew John to attend as we celebrate his life by sharing memories and stories together.
Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com
Gent Funeral Home
