News Summary
Ronald Lee Davenport, a respected law enforcement veteran from Greenwood, passed away at the age of 72. Davenport’s career spanned over 33 years, beginning with the Greenwood Police Department. He is remembered for his dedication to public service, family, and community. Funeral services are scheduled for May 25, with memorial donations directed to Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont.
Greenwood, SC – Ronald Lee Davenport, a dedicated law enforcement veteran, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 72 in Hospice House located in Greenwood. Davenport’s commitment to public service spanned over 33 years, during which he held various positions within the law enforcement community, beginning his career in 1975 with the Greenwood Police Department.
Born on April 2, 1953, in Greenwood, Davenport was the son of Floyd Lindsey Davenport and Barbara Ann Nalley Davenport. He was a graduate of Greenwood High School, where he made notable contributions as part of the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), ultimately achieving the rank of Lt Colonel as the Battalion Commander. During his senior year, he received the prestigious JROTC Sabre Award. Following high school, he continued his education at Lander College.
Ronald Lee Davenport began his law enforcement journey as a patrolman at the Greenwood Police Department in October 1975. His tireless work ethic and commitment to serving his community led to his promotion to Sergeant and subsequently to Lieutenant. Throughout his extensive career, Davenport also served in several other key agencies, including the South Carolina Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services, as well as the 8th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
Outside of his professional life, Davenport was known for his passion for family genealogy and enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing.
Davenport is survived by his three children: two sons, Ronald Lee “Chip” Davenport II and J Russell Davenport, along with daughter Leslee Ann Davenport McCarty. He was a proud grandfather to several grandchildren, including Haley Davenport, Madison Davenport, Sophia Davenport, Parker McCarty, Ashton McCarty, Tucker McCarty, and Colbee Davenport. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Deborah Lynn Jardine, and her children, nephew Christopher Chad Jardine and niece Crystal Jardine Crain, along with his closest friend, Barbara Drayton.
Funeral services for Ronald Lee Davenport are scheduled for May 25, 2025, at 2 p.m. in the Blyth Funeral Home Chapel. The ceremony will be officiated by Rev. Michael Butler. Following the service, he will be laid to rest in Greenwood Memorial Gardens. A group of pallbearers, including Ronald Booker, Jr., Rashad Booker, Ryan Booker, Elijah Booker, Larry Scott, Steve Nicholson, Carey Wells, David Gambrell, and Tommy Tunstall, will honor him during the burial.
The Davenport family will welcome friends and acquaintances at the funeral home on the evening before the service, May 24, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be directed to Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont, which is located at 408 W. Alexander Avenue, Greenwood, SC 29646. Blyth Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the family during this time of loss.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Shooting Outside Jewish Museum Claims Lives of Two Embassy Staff
Incident at Haywood Mall Causes Lockdown and Panic
Illinois Man Arrested for Bomb Threat on I-85
Fifth Inmate of Orleans Parish Jail Captured After Escape
Authorities Search for Suspects in Lake Wylie Car Break-Ins
House Republicans Push Tax and Health Care Bill with Fast-Tracked Medicaid Cuts
Shooter Remains at Large Following Fatal Columbia Shooting
Tragic Train Incident in Fremont Claims Lives and Leaves Family in Distress
Ten Inmates Escape from New Orleans Jail, Sparking Manhunt
Mass Shooting in Myrtle Beach Leaves One Dead and Eleven Injured
Additional Resources
- Weather.com: Greenwood, SC
- Fox Carolina: Upstate School District Class Changes Due to Weather
- Island Packet: Weather News Article
- Index Journal: Tornado Watch Includes Greenwood County
- Greenville Online: When Will It Start Snowing in the Upstate, SC?
- Wikipedia: Greenwood, South Carolina
