Hon. Christine Davenport, a Respected Community Leader and Activist, Remembered for Her Enduring Legacy of Faith and Selfless Service

The Honorable Christine Davenport, a devoted community member, respected activist, educator and beloved leader whose faith, compassion, and service profoundly impacted countless lives, has passed away. 

Dr. Barbara Palmer, of the Kingdom Celebration Center in Gambrills, announced Ms. Davenport's passing today, describing her as a "faithful and dedicated member" who "served with grace, love, and unwavering commitment to God and His people." Ms. Davenport's influence, known for her joyful spirit and wise counsel, extended far beyond the church walls. Dr. Palmer’s statement concluded, "Christine’s presence, wisdom, and joyful spirit will truly be missed by our entire church family. We take comfort in knowing she is resting in the arms of the Lord."

NAACP President Steven Waddy also released a statement, noting, "The NAACP is deeply saddened by the loss of one of our most dedicated members, Ms. Christine Davenport. She was a life member of the NAACP and currently held the position of membership committee chair." He further added that she dedicated herself to the upliftment of the Black community in Anne Arundel County, even presenting scholarship awards at their 50th Annual Freedom Fund banquet on Friday night. "There are no dry eyes in the NAACP as we learn of her passing. Our hearts go out to her family and friends during this time of grieving."

In addition to her invaluable service to the NAACP, Ms. Davenport devoted nearly 4 decades to education before breaking political ground as the first Black woman elected to represent District 31 on the Democratic Central Committee. She helped to lead both the North Arundel County Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the county’s chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. Ms. Davenport continued her lifelong commitment to youth empowerment while serving with the Continental Society, a nonprofit focused on enriching the lives of children through education and service.

County Executive Steuart Pittman shared the following personal tribute:

"I was saddened this morning to learn that Christine Davenport left us last night. Christine was the Chair of the Anne Arundel County Democratic Party Central Committee when I ran for County Executive in 2018. I was an outsider, and she welcomed me so warmly. She made me feel supported from our very first breakfast at the Nautilus Diner to her last breath... The spirit of that woman made people like me do things we didn’t know were possible. Rest in peace, dear Christine. We will carry on your work."