Celebrating the Life of Carolyn Ann (Sawyer) Davenport
Lexington, SC – The community is coming together to remember and celebrate the life of Carolyn Ann (Sawyer) Davenport, who passed away on September 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Her legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Born in 1938 in Johnston, SC, to the late Horace Witt Sawyer and Voila Mae Allen, Carolyn grew up in a nurturing household that valued education. She excelled academically, graduating from Edgefield High School before pursuing further studies at the University of South Carolina. Continuing her pursuit of learning, she later earned a Master’s Degree from Rollins College in Winter Park, FL.
A Passion for Education and Teaching
Carolyn’s enthusiasm for education led her to become a dedicated teacher. Throughout her career, she taught at several high schools and middle schools across the South, from Clemson to Norfolk, VA. In 1973, she made the move to Orlando, FL, where she continued her passion for education at Apopka High School, Junior High School, Maitland Middle School, and Glenridge Middle School as a guidance counselor. Education was not just her job; it was her calling.
Throughout her life, Carolyn was very involved in her church communities. Initially, she attended the First Baptist Church in Edgefield but later became an active member of Johnston First Baptist Church, where she even learned to play the piano, developing a love for music that would stay with her for the rest of her life. After relocating to Orlando, she and her family joined Trinity Lutheran Church, where they actively served.
Giving Back to the Community
After retiring, Carolyn made another move, this time to Lexington, SC, to be closer to her grandchildren and enjoy life back in “God’s Country.” Here, she became a valued member of Pilgrim Lutheran Church, contributing to various ministries, including church council, call committees, and the Stephen Ministry. Carolyn never shied away from helping others and regularly volunteered with local nonprofits, including Mission Lexington, showing her unwavering commitment to her community.
Anyone who knew her would tell you she had an infectious love for life. Carolyn adored gardening, reading, attending her grandchildren’s sports events, and even developed a newfound appreciation for exercise later in life. Moreover, she shared a special bond with her pets, who were cherished members of her family.
A Loving Family and Lasting Impact
Family was unequivocally central to Carolyn’s life. She sacrificed tirelessly to provide opportunities for her children, including Cecelia Lynn (Maxwell) Fehner (Herb), Richard Sawyer Maxwell (Rachel), Ann Carolyn Davenport, and stepson Robert (Bobby) Everett Davenport, Jr. (Kari). Her love for family extended to her beloved grandchildren: Brian Sawyer Maxwell, Steven Edward Maxwell, Sarah Marie Maxwell, and Michael Edward Maxwell. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart, and she took great joy in their achievements, even if it meant occasionally cheering for those who chose to attend rival colleges!
Remembering Carolyn
A service to honor Carolyn’s remarkable 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. A burial service will follow at 1:30 PM at Mt. of Olives Cemetery. The family invites friends to gather before the service from 10 AM to 11 AM at the church, sharing memories and support during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Mission Lexington, a cause that Carolyn held dear to her heart. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mercantile Funeral Home – Johnston Chapel. Family and friends are encouraged to visit www.edgefieldmercantilefh.com to share memories or photos in honor of Carolyn.
As we remember Carolyn Ann Sawyer Davenport, it’s clear her impact on family, friends, and the community will be felt for generations to come.
