Rebecca Davenport Spear

   Rebecca Ray Davenport Spear, 93, of 983 Old Cherry Road, Creswell, NC, died Monday, March 6, 2023 in ECU Health Chowan Hospital, Edenton, surrounded by her loving family.

   Mrs. Spear was born in Washington County on July 26, 1929 and was the daughter of the late Richard Elwood and Janie Ernestine Davenport. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband in 1995 after nearly 46 years of marriage, Dan Windley Spear; by a sister, Lelia Davenport; and by brothers, Russell and Louis Davenport.

   Many years ago Mrs. Spear worked as a clerk in Mr. Harry Barnes’ Grocery Store, and later as the custodian of Philippi Church of Christ, a position she held for over 22 years and where she continued to work until she was 82 years of age. A faithful member of Philippi, she was the secretary of Class 12, served as secretary to the Superintendent of Sunday School, was active in the Ladies Circle, and worked on the church Food Committee preparing and serving food to families during the loss of loved ones.

   Mrs. Spear had a quiet, gentle spirit, but her vitality spoke volumes during her 93 years. An excellent seamstress, fabric came to life in her hands as she made beautiful clothes for her two daughters and grandchildren. A diligent furniture restorer, she refinished woodwork that has added to the charm of her home. Continuing in the tradition of her mother, she has constantly tended and added flowering plants to her yard. Mrs. Spear’s yard stands out in the community as a landscape of tranquility, beauty, and constant renewal of life, reflected in her lovely flowers.

   Surviving are two daughters, Angela Spear Davenport (husband, Bill) of Creswell and Dana Spear Webb (husband, Michael) of Chocowinity; a sister, Maggie Davenport of Williamston; a brother, Keith Davenport (wife, Judy) of Chesapeake, VA; two grandsons, Clay Buck (wife, Lisa-Joy) of Wilmington and Brandon Buck (friend, Virginia Roberts) of Farmville; five step-grandchildren, Jennings Davenport (wife, Jeannette) of Tarboro, Tony Davenport (wife, Jennifer) of Creswell, Matthew Davenport of Columbia, Gregory Webb (wife, Kaylee) of Williamston and Jeffrey Webb (wife, Tiffany) of Raleigh; eleven step-great-grandchildren; and five step-great-great-grandchildren.

   Funeral services will be held Friday at 2:00 p.m. in Philippi Church of Christ and will be conducted by her pastor, Glenn Brickhouse. The burial will follow in the church cemetery. Friends may visit with the family Thursday in the church from 6 to 7:30 p.m., or all other times at the residence.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Philippi Church of Christ, 74 Old Cherry Road, Creswell, NC 27928.

   Miller Funeral Home & Crematory, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, is assisting with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.