Benjamin Haddon Davenport Jr.

Benjamin Haddon Davenport Jr., 89, of Carterville, passed away Sunday, March 24, 2024, at his home.

Private services were held.

Haddon was born September 5, 1934, in Chicago, to Lois Janette (Blake) and Benjamin Haddon Davenport Sr. He married Leda Bernice Williams on April 19, 1968, in Carbondale. Together they have shared 55 wonderful years.

He is survived by his loving wife, Bernice Davenport; daughters, Lori (Les) Palmer, Melinda (Shawn) Barnes, and Dana (Andy) Yochum; grandchildren, Lee (Andrea) Palmer, Courtney (Brett) Oswald, Brennan (Megan) Barnes, Cameron Barnes, Britton (Sami) Herrin, Reese Herrin, Daven Yochum, and Skylar Yochum; great-grandchildren, Lainey Oswald, Jack Palmer and Audrey Palmer; sister, Linda (Bud) Wisniewski; and brother, Richard (Vera) Davenport; and many nieces and nephews.  

Haddon was preceded in death by his parents.

He attended Kemper Military School in Booneville, Missouri, with aspirations of attending West Point Academy. He graduated in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Illinois at Champaign, where he was a member of the Sigma Pi Fraternity.

Haddon enjoyed keeping his vehicles immaculate, mowing his grass well into his mid 80’s, a good beer and bar-be-que, cheering on his fighting Illini, and time spent with friends and family.

He was an avid golfer and was a member of Jackson County Country Club in Carbondale. Haddon was also a lifetime member of the Carbondale Elks.

He owned and operated Rex Loan Company in Carbondale, along with his father, Haddon Sr., for many years.

Haddon was extremely proud of his family. He was the true definition of a gentleman, always taking care of his beloved wife.

He was patriarch of the family with his sound advice, levelheaded and his loss will be felt immensely.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Senior Adult Services, 409 North Springer Street, Carbondale, IL 62901. 

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville assisted the family with arrangements. 

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