Wanda Lea Davenport

Wanda Lea Davenport passed away in her home in Port Hueneme on February 4, 2025. Wanda was born to John W. Bailey and Alva Griffin Bailey on February 15, 1929 in Halfway, Missouri. The family moved to Santa Paula when Wanda was five years old.

Wanda was introduced to Richard Davenport, who would become the love of her life, in her backyard on Christmas Day in 1945. She graduated from Santa Paula High School in 1947 and they married on June 27, 1948.  They were fortunate to share 69 years together. Richard, her sweetheart, passed away in 2017.

Richard and Wanda had two children, Richard Allan Davenport and Debra Denise Davenport and two grandchildren, Luca and Bridget. Wanda loved playing board games, having tea parties, cuddling, and keeping “secrets” with the kids. Wanda wanted them to know her heart was filled with love and pride for them and she loved her family and God.

 Wanda was 10 years old when she was saved. Her prayer for her grandkids was that they would find the Lord and walk with him through every stage of life. “Let God have your life. He can do more with it than you can.” was her advice.

Wanda loved gardening, reading, cooking, embroidery, sewing, writing, backpacking, clouds and trees, drawing, traveling, and nature- particularly the Avenue of the Giants and Yosemite. She was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend for almost 96 years. She will be greatly missed, but is with her Saviour, reunited with her beloved Richard and the many loved ones waiting to welcome her home.

Remaining family includes baby brother Wayne (Joy) and sister-in-law-and best friend from high school days Naomi (John). She held her 15 nephews, 4 nieces, their spouses, and children in high regard. Wanda was preceded in death by siblings Evert (Willa Mae), Vera (Dave), Edwand (Patricia), Glen (Audrey), and Doran (Darlene).

Graveside service will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Pierce Brothers Santa Paula Cemetery, 380 Cemetery Road, Santa Paula.

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