Celebrating the Life of Carolyn Ann Davenport
Lexington, SC – The community of Lexington is coming together to honor the remarkable life of Carolyn Ann (Sawyer) Davenport, who passed away on September 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was a beacon of strength and kindness, who dedicated her life to education, family, and service.
A Life Well-Lived
Born in 1938 at a family home in Johnston, SC, Carolyn was a daughter of the late Horace Witt Sawyer and Voila Mae Allen. Growing up in a household that cherished education, Carolyn naturally followed that path, graduating from Edgefield High School before moving on to the University of South Carolina. Her thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there; she later earned her Master’s Degree from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida.
An Impactful Educator
Carolyn’s teaching career spanned several states, where she made her mark in high schools and middle schools across Clemson, Johnston, Edgefield, and Norfolk, VA. In 1973, she made the big move to Orlando, FL, where she continued to inspire young minds at Apopka High School and several junior high schools as a guidance counselor. While in Orlando, she and her family were active members of Trinity Lutheran Church, further reflecting her commitment to community service.
A Passion for Service
After retiring, Carolyn returned to her roots in Lexington, SC, drawn back to what she affectionately called “God’s Country” to be closer to her grandchildren. At Pilgrim Lutheran Church, she quickly became a well-respected member, serving on the church council and participating in various ministries, including the Stephen Ministry, Prayer Shawl Ministry, and many years teaching Sunday School. Carolyn’s compassion extended beyond the church walls; she volunteered her time at local non-profits like Mission Lexington and served on the Elections Commission, showcasing her dedication to community welfare.
A Multi-Faceted Life
Her interests were as diverse as her teaching locations. Carolyn found joy in attending sports and music events featuring her grandchildren, a testament to her loving nature as a grandmother. She blossomed into gardening, politics, and reading, savoring the beauty and knowledge she found through these hobbies. Surprisingly, she even developed a fondness for exercise later in life, underscoring her belief in staying active.
A Loving Family
In her role as a mother, Carolyn epitomized dedication and sacrifice, always aiming to provide the best opportunities for her children. As a lifelong Gamecock, she proudly attended USC football games with her family, even though some of her grandchildren later chose to cheer for Clemson, a point that made her chuckle, albeit with a hint of playful chagrin.
Carolyn will be dearly remembered by her children, Cecelia Lynn (Maxwell) Fehner (Herb), Richard Sawyer Maxwell (Rachel), Ann Carolyn Davenport, and her stepson Robert (Bobby) Everett Davenport, Jr. (Kari). Her vibrant legacy will also live on through her grandchildren: Brian Sawyer Maxwell, Steven Edward Maxwell, Sarah Marie Maxwell, and Michael Edward Maxwell, along with a wide circle of loving extended family.
Final Farewell
A service to celebrate Carolyn’s life will be held on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, located at 1430 Northlake Dr., Lexington, SC 29072. Burial will follow at the Mt. of Olives cemetery at 1:30 PM. Prior to the service, the family will welcome friends and loved ones from 10 AM to 11 AM at the church.
In honor of Carolyn’s passion for helping others, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Mission Lexington, where she proudly volunteered her time. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mercantile Funeral Home – Johnston Chapel with an invitation for everyone to share a memory or photo at their website.
Carolyn Ann Davenport leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family, friends, and community. As we celebrate her life, we remember the indelible mark she has left on all our hearts.
