Melanie R. Davenport, 74, of Fort Wayne, Ind., passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2023, at Parkview Hospital - Randallia. Born July 13, 1948, she was a daughter of the late Dr. Alan and Ruth Chambers. Melanie graduated from South Side High School and attended Ball State University. After several years in the banking industry, she was co-owner of the Great Cover Up Decorating Center, active in the Home Builders Association and served on the Board of Directors for the National Decorating Products Association. She went on to management positions with two large national retailers and earned District Manager of the year awards. Melanie loved homes and real estate and her natural proclivity to work hard and be an entrepreneur led her to build a successful real estate career earning numerous awards and recognitions over the last 20 years at Coldwell Banker. Melanie had a green thumb and grew beautiful plants and flowers. She was a great lover of animals, dogs in particular, and contributed to many wildlife and rescue organizations. Melanie is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, David A. Davenport; son, Mark A. Davenport; beloved grandchildren, Chason and Lily Davenport; brother, Mark (Ruth) Chambers; and numerous nieces and nephews amongst those she loved. She was preceded in death by brothers, Alan (Mona) Chambers, Mike (Ivy) Chambers, Richard Zinn; and father, Joseph Zinn. A Celebration of Life is from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 24, 2023, at Hilton Garden Inn, 10650 Diebold Road, Fort Wayne. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Humane Fort Wayne, 4914 Hanna St., Fort Wayne, IN 46806; or Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control, 3020 Hillegas Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46808. Arrangements entrusted to Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services - Highland Park.
