WILMINGTON — Cheryl Kay Yeager Davenport, 73, entered peacefully into God’s eternal care on Friday, November 28, 2025, in Summerville, South Carolina.
Born on September 4, 1952, in Alexandria, Virginia, she was the beloved daughter of Lloyd and Margie Yeager and the devoted sister of Lori O’Rourke and Gary Yeager. From a young age, Cheryl exhibited a creative spirit, an optimistic outlook, and a sincere commitment to serving others.
Cheryl honorably dedicated 36 years of service to the United States as a Program Manager and Systems Architect. Throughout her distinguished career, she offered exemplary leadership, technical expertise, and calm professionalism. Her work strengthened national capabilities, and her mentorship shaped the careers of countless colleagues and friends. She was deeply respected for her keen intellect, exceptional organizational skill, and steadfast integrity.
On May 9, 1992, Cheryl married William “Bill” Davenport, beginning a 33-year union grounded in faith, mutual respect, and enduring devotion. Their marriage was marked by loving companionship, shared joy, and a lifetime of cherished memories with family and friends.
Cheryl is survived by her husband, Bill, mother, Margie, daughters, Heather Byrd (Ryan) and Lindsay Thomasson (Chad), and by her stepdaughter, Michelle Sealock (Eddie). She was a proud and loving grandmother whose joy grew with every child welcomed into the family. Her treasured grandchildren include Clemson Byrd, Virginia “Ginny” Byrd, Tyrus “Ty” Byrd, Brianna Thomasson, Alyssa Thomasson, Benjamin Sealock, and Diana Sealock. She is also survived by her nieces, Bailey Leffler and Kelis Patel; her nephew, Kyle Yeager with whom she shares a birthday; and her extended family of aunts and cousins.
Cheryl lived a life enriched by creativity, joy, and a sense of child-like wonder. She shared her “Sunshine” freely with all who knew her. She found great fulfillment in painting, cooking, decorating, playing the piano, singing soprano, gardening, and transforming every home into a place of comfort and welcome. She delighted in selecting meaningful gifts for her loved ones, and her annual Christmas cookie tradition brought sweetness and happiness to all who took part.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 5th, at Andrews Mortuary, 1617 Market Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Guests are invited to wear red in her honor. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at 2:00 PM Monday, December 8, 2025, at the National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico, Triangle, Virginia.
Flowers are graciously accepted. Memorial contributions may also be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her memory. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of The Village at Summerville and Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care and ministry—they are truly angels on earth.
