In Loving Memory of
William Davenport
June 19, 1947 – January 20, 2021
Virtual Celebration of Life Gathering was held on January 29, 2021
Watch the Celebration of Life
“I am WONDERFUL, FABULOUS, DEVINE, BLESSED and HIGHLY FAVORED!” If you are a friend near or far, then you heard William Davenport use these adjectives to describe his existence on earth. William, affectionately called Billy by his family, was exactly that to us WONDERFUL, FABULOUS, DEVINE, BLESSED and HIGHLY FAVORED.
William “Billy” Davenport was born in Chicago, IL on June 19, 1947, and ascended to eternal life at the age of 73 on Wednesday, January 20, 2021. Billy was the oldest of two children born to William Sr. and LaRue Davenport who both preceded him in death.
Billy was a native of Chicago, Illinois and grew up on the Southside of Chicago. He began his education with the Chicago Public schools. He graduated from Morgan Park High School and later attended Wilson Junior College.
If you think angels do not exist on earth, then you should stop and remember Billy Davenport. Billy was filled with compassion, warmth, and love. With the support of his beloved grandmother’s statement “You’re young, you’re black and you’re 21 Billy, moved from Illinois to Florida. This marked the beginning of his adult life.
Upon his arrival in Miami, he applied for “any available” position on an ocean liner. A hiring officer asked the group of applicants, can anyone sing? Bill replied, “I can,!” and he dedicated himself to his gift of singing and dancing. He also received tips by watching the June Taylor dancers on the Jackie Gleason show and developed a craft that was loved by all who witnessed his performances.
Because of his gifts and his skilled craft, Billy moved from Florida to California and landed a prestigious career as the Head Choreographer for Warner Brothers and Century 21 studios. After some time in California, Billy moved to New York City to continue his career on Broadway. As he settled in New York and adopted it as his home, not only did he continue his career in entertainment, he earned a New York Real Estate License. He also studied Buddhism and became a Free and Accepted Mason.
Billy traveled all over the world, both professionally and leisurely, one of his greatest pleasures. Most recently he traveled to Bali, Indonesia, with family where he had the time of his life. If you know Billy, he cherished his family, so if there was an opportunity to fellowship with them, he was there: Thanksgiving, birthdays, backyard BBQ’s, and graduations, if someone said the family would be there, he was on the plane.
His cousin Warren put it best, “Billy lived his life on his own terms, and I loved him for that.”
The energy and love Billy shared with everyone will be remembered forever. He made you laugh, sing, and dance. He shared unconditional love and selflessness, he will forever be in our hearts, as he was an extraordinary man.
Billy leaves to cherish and celebrate his life and legacy his loving Aunt Gwen Grice, brother Robert Davenport, first cousins Tanya Yeargain (Ron), Lester Scates (Phyliss), Phillip Scates, Gina Green (Rickey) , Warren McBride, Steven Grice (Tonya), Bonita Henderson and Karen Grice, many second and third cousins, who all supported him and host of friends, students and colleagues.
Special acknowledgments and thanks to his “Auntie” Gwen Grice, his cousins Karen Grice, Tanya Benford, Steven Grice, and Andre Benford. His god daughter, Shani’ Clayton who sat by his side during his hospital visits and his neighbors, Robert Higgs and Gonzalo Ortiz .who cared for him dearly.
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Peace & Blessings to my friend Bill’s family on his passing… Bill, I will never forget your presence in my life, we go back many years and we’ve been through the good, the bad, & the ugly together… I just want to let your family and your other friends know that I thought you were a dynamic person with a flare for life, and living it… Your sense of humor was hilarious and you were a joy to be around… I personally believed that Bill lived every God given day to it’s fullest, and gave Glory to the Divine Being… Namu Myoho Renge Kyo!!! I Love and never will forget you Bill… R.I.P.
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My partner in entertainment, Bill was the best. We spent three months in Japan in 1988, at Jungle Jap and Bar Dubois, Nagoyaa….I was his music director, and Bill taught me about Japan, entertaining, and life….A wonderful man of immense talent and one of the best entertainers I’ve ever seen, much less had the pleasure of working with. He was undervalued, in my estimation., by everyone except those who had the pleasure of seeing one of his shows. I am caught by surprise, as we talked of one more series or performances together, and I sorely miss that that opportunity has now escaped us.
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My condolences to Billy’s family. I met Billy through his cousin Karen Grice. He lived in NYC where I live. In a word, Billy was joyful. And in that way alone, so inspiring. Much love to you Billy. May you be resting in peace. It was an honor to know you. Love, Meaghan
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My condolences to the family. Bill was a beautiful spirit. I met him at his apartment building in 2014. He gave me a lot of encouragement when I lost my father in 2015. I believe that I spoke with him a couple of days before his transition. May he rest in eternal peace.
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I am so grateful for my teacher Mr. Davenport and his contributions to my career in entertainment and bringing a great bunch of people together who have had friendships to last a life time. #RIP #AsburyPark #UniversalAcademyofDance
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Thank you Bill for your love and caring words throughout the years. Your friendship will truly be missed my heart is broken. Love always and forever Rebecca ❤ ???
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What a wonderful spirit. I remember Bill from the real estate business. Always a gentleman and on point. May he rest peacefully.
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Mr. Davenport offered dance classes to inner city children in Asbury Park, NJ. He was committed to open their eyes to other experiences related to dance. My daughter Natalia learned to do the best turns because he showed her how to spot properly. Years later, when she attended Ballet Hispanico of NY School of Dance, I always admired her turns thanks to him. Thanks to his initial efforts we have professional dancers that are now traveling the world. Mr. Davenport will always be remembered for his tenacity to bring dance arts to our children. Sweet memories. Descanse en paz. Rest in Peace.
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Mr.. Davenport,
May you Rest In Peace. My first dance teacher! You introduced me to my love of dance and I thank you for that. My condolences to Mr. Davenports loved ones!
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Billy was a fixture at the Thanksgiving trifecta each year.As a native NYer, I loved his stories about acting and Broadway. Not to mention he was a great dance partner. He was always upbeat and that is a gift few possess. Be you wherever you are Billy.
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Bill brought his special flavor and flair to Asbury Park in the 90s. He opened a dance school downtown, something kids had been in need of. Even when he moved to the city he would occasionally come to visit. I will miss his smile, his warmth his flair and the twinkle in his eye. Dance and sing on, brother. You’re in good company!!
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And now the end is near and so I face the final curtain
My friends I’ll say it clear I’ll state my case of which I’m certain
I’ve lived a life so full I’ve traveled each and every highway
And more, much more than this…
He did it his way —
Goodbye Bill–you will be missed–
Love from Frances Rickard
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To Billy, may you look down on this and say Fabulous.. To live life and no just pass through.
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It was such a pleasure knowing Bill from the SGI! He was surely one of my favorite Buddhists!
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I live in the same building as Bill did,and always remember playing “Satin Doll” while Bill danced.It was a celebration of the Aurora;s 10th. Anniversary and Bill gave it his all,even with a bad heart. His Soul,however,was so rich! Dance on a cloud for me. James
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To our dear Bill – a treasure of a human being, determined to live out his dreams, kind to everyone and talented beyond. Lobe and miss you Bill. My sincere condolences to his family.
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I find it difficult to share the joy that Billy bought to my life. We lived in the same building and I always looked forward to coming home and stopping by Billy’s place before I went to my own. We cooked and he always had updates on what’s happening in NYC. We also enjoyed going plays and listening to old school music together. He was and will always be an inspiration to me. Rest well my love:…
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Bill was a beloved member of the building family where I live; my way-upstairs neighbor, and a true friend to all. His sweet generosity of spirit, and his serene joy in both good and troubled times, are an example to us all. We already feel his absence keenly, but celebrate having known this wonderful, kind man. May we all feel “truly blessed and highly favored,” whenever the memory of our time spent with him comes to mind.
It was easy to feel special in his company, but to his family and his closest friends: a huge hug, and much love to you in your time of grief and loss. You are far from alone in your love for this magnificent, unforgettable human!
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Miss you Bill.
Rest well❤️??
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Bill has been my dear friend, like a brother to me, in & out, the dance world.
We meet back in the late 60’s in NY. We danced together in live shows and in movies, throughout our careers. In the 1980’s we danced and sang together, as guests, in a Tokyo, Japan production.
It was such a pleasure to see Bill, these past 3 years, after I moved to Atlanta. It was at his Aunt’s home, for his family’s Thanksgiving dinners. I miss miss dearly. The last words he spoke, a few weeks ago to me was, “see you on Thanksgiving”. Miss you brother Bill.
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A One Man Band~ …who could have Done All that he did for Self Glory~
But, oh no ~ He was here to SHARE the Joy of Life ? & with Gr8 Compassion ✨
That he Did, low or high / All were Welcomed to his table ? We lov ya Bill, & looking Forward to our Next Life Together
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Job well done ?
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Bill was my partner in the Elderplan commercial and we became friends. He planned a black history program about my uncle a soldier in 54th mass. Black regiment in his apt. Bldg entertainment room and read from my uncles writing of the battles and the men of the Massachusetts 54th
Colored troops. Bill is special and highly favored. He is
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I am very saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. We had a lot of fun in the few moments where I was fortunate to be in his presence. My condolences to all his friends and family.
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It was always good to see Bill Davenport….even if it was just a wave and a smile from across the street. During the Juneteenth Celebrations at the SGI-USA NY Culture Center (going back to 2015 that I remember), it seems I felt his strong, nurturing, encouraging presence during rehearsals…even when he wasn’t there. He will be missed..but not forgotten.
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Bill, you will be missed.
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Bill was so kind. I will always think of him. My father passed this past March, before that time about Is this over a year ago I shared how difficult it was for me. Bills response:
Jackie this is such an important time for both of you stay Patient and calm, your dad needs you, and you need him.
Another time we spoke and dad had just been diagnosed with 2 frontal brain tumors. A couple I was close to had not stayed in contact with me because I hated chanting.
What did Bill do with out my knowing? Called then told them what was happening and they got back in touch with dad and I and now we have a special loving friendship ever since.
Bill all ways thought of others. Such a kind hearted man I will miss him and never forget him.
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Although I was saddened to hear of Bill’s passing, when I think of him I cannot help but smile in appreciation for his life. I will always remember his selfless dedication, support, and sincere encouragement during the “Harvest of Humanity” activities. Bill became such an integral part of the planning and production of each event.
I am so glad that we kept in touch from time to time over the years for Bill was so full of love, life, laughter even in the midst of illness. Bill always embraced life with all its possibilities. He was Forever Young, Forever Fabulous, Forever Bill…
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I will always have fond memories of my cousin Billy. Your visits to Chicago will be missed. Gone too soon!
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Bill and I reconnected in friendship after a few years of not seeing one another. He was a kind, loving and loyal friend. He will be remembered as the man who loved to perform and even though I will miss him greatly, he will carry on ‘up yonder’ just fine. RIP my friend until we meet again. Flo
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And now the end is near.. And so I face the final curtain
My friends I’ll say it clear… I’ll State my case of which I’m certain
I’ve lived a life that’s full I’ve traveled each and every Highway
And More Much More Than This…
He did it his way…
Goodbye Billl we will all miss you love from Frances
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I’m so sorry for our collective loss. I pray you are we re born a great champion for peace compassion and joy.
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“Bill Davenport” was a real sweetheart of a man! It was my pleasure and benefit to have known him. Rest In Peace – until we meet again.
Elizabeth
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Bill was a Wonderful person and an inspiration to everyone! I will never forget his kindness to me, and how he always greeted me with a warm smile!
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Bill i will surely miss you…..Claire
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Billy, the angels await you as you enter the kingdom to join our father! Rest in power!
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I’m going to miss my twin cousin as he would always say…We were the same age for 6 months throughout the years. He meant the World to me. Our Vacation’s together was always full of laughter, dancing and staying up late into the morning hours talking about how much fun we had. RIP My Love. God has an Angel. For sure.❤️
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Sorry you’re not here with us. I’m grateful to have met you and
to have practiced this Biddhism with you. Sending prayers, love and light to everyone who knew Bill Davenport. I will miss your presence in the SGI. Nam Myoho Renge Kyo! Tua Ntr!
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COUSIN BILLY WAS A TRUE PERFORMING ARTS STAR IN OUR FAMILY. HE ALWATS SHINNED BRIGHT LIKE A DIAMOND AND MADE US PROUD WHEN WE WOULD SEE HIM IN A MOVIE OR ON THE SMALL SCREEN. HE TRULY MADE GREAT STRIDES IN HIS LIFE! ???
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Bill was one of most committed persons that I worked with over the years. He brought our projects to life
With his eye for movement, drama and our eternal Vow. We fought together with daimoku to bring Harvest for Humanity to our community…
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I’ll miss our prayer meetings. See you in Heaven, my brother.
Noah
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Billy was truly a great person. He loved life and lived it on his own terms. We can all write a book about our lives, but would anyone want to read it? I would often tell Billy that if he wrote such a book many would want to read it . I know he must have had ups and downs in his life, but he weathered them all with a smile on his face. I will miss him.
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Rest in Paradise Billy!!! You’ll truly be missed by all. Love ya Bev
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Growing up my Uncle Billy always told me to stay FABULOUS no matter what!
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❤️ Rest my Dear Friend Yes you were ALWAYS BLESSED & HIGHLY FAVORED Love
Vernita?
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RIH William “Billy” Davenport… you were a professional dancer, actor and teacher, but the most important role for me was simply being the best cousin ever! ❤️
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WE WERE DANCE PARTNERS AND I HAVE KNOW BILL FOR MORE THAN 45 YEARS. HE HAS BEEN A WONDERFUL SMILING AND POSITIVE LIGHT IN MY LIFE FOR ALL OF THOSE YEARS. HE KNEW ME AND MY SISTER BEFORE WE HAD CHILDREN, AND HE ALWAYS REFERRED TO HIMSELF AS UNCLE BILL AND THEY CALLED HIM UNCLE BILL. HE IS VERY ENDEARING AND LOVED IN OUR FAMILY AND I WILL CHERISH ALL THE MOMENTS THAT I SPENT WITH HIM. I LOVE HIM SO MUCH AND WILL MISS HIM MORE THAN WORDS CAN EXPRESS. TO MY SPECIAL BROTHER
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Dear Bill came to us to teach ballet to our mother in the past few years. He took the job very seriously and made it a family affair. He brought joy and his many talents into our lives. We are forever grateful! Reverence to our teacher forever! Love, the Browne family