SEABOARD – Vernie Mae Edwards Davenport, 82, died Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at Halifax Regional Medical Center in Roanoke Rapids after a brief illness.

A native of Seaboard, Vernie Mae was the daughter of the late Ed Lewis and Lena Barnes Edwards. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Z L Davenport, Jr. and her sisters, Pauline E. Lukes and Ernestine E. Kelly.

Vernie Mae worked for a number of years as a teller for the Farmers Bank of Seaboard. Later, she thoroughly enjoyed working as a tax preparer for H & R Block. Vernie was also a member of the Seaboard Chapter #275 Order of the Eastern Star. Vernie was a member of Elam Baptist Church, serving for many years as a Sunday school teacher, Vacation Bible School teacher and member of the WMU. Even when her health prevented her attendance, she participated in services through the recorded tape ministry.

She is survived by her children, Verlene D. Stephenson of Seaboard, two sons, James L. Davenport and Charles W. Davenport of the home; her brother, Wesley F. Edwards of Winter Haven, Fla; a sister, Delano E. Davis of Pleasant Hill; a sister in law, Kathryn D. Clark of Littleton; and several beloved nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Friday, May 17, 2013 at Elam Baptist Church with the Rev. Wesley Moses officiating. Interment followed in the Seaboard cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Elam Baptist Church Building Fund, 146 Gumberry St, Garysburg, NC  27831 or the charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements are being handled by Askew Funeral and Cremation services in Roanoke Rapids. Online condolences may be made to the family at  www.askewfs.com.