September 2024 Newsletter - Meet our Residents: Richard and Jerri Davenport

We are delighted to introduce you to Richard and Jerri Davenport, two remarkable individuals who joined our vibrant community at The Willows a few years ago. Their journey from St. Louis to Southern California was driven by a desire to be closer to their children and grandchildren, and it’s clear that their presence has not only enriched our neighborhood, but they’ve made a big impact on the greater community.

Richard and Jerri yearned to be part of a larger, more engaging community in Southern California, and they found exactly that with us. They have been warmly embraced by our residents and are thriving here.

For Richard and Jerri, living closer to their grandchildren has meant the world. This past year, Richard cherished picking up their five-year-old grandson from school on Mondays, and taking him swimming in our heated pool, followed by a lunch of cheeseburgers with ketchup & pickles at our Bistro. Early Friday mornings have been reserved for special times with their two year-old granddaughter on nearby Laguna Beach, allowing them to support their daughter’s beach volleyball games while creating memories with their granddaughter nearby. Jerri and Richard also eagerly provide babysitting service to all three of their grandchildren.

Their commitment to community and inclusivity extends beyond their family life. Richard and Jerri are founding members of, and still on the Board of the Christian Science church in Brentwood, MO. They are also engaged in inspiring ecumenical work that reaches a broader community.

Throughout his career, including being a retired Protestant Chaplain in the Air Force, Richard has dedicated much of his life to listening to and supporting others. It’s a value he carries into his current work in the Stephen Ministry at a local United Congregational Church. There, he provides compassionate support to individuals who have experienced trauma, embodying the spirit of unconditional love and empathy.

Jerri, with her love of singing, contributes to the church choir and has led a women’s retreat, fostering spiritual growth and connection among her peers. They both cherish opportunities to share Christian Science and spiritual insights into the greater community.

They have also given back to their residential community having both provided enriching Bible talks in The Willows Hodges Hall. The couple’s engagement in church activities and their leadership roles reflect their deep commitment to their faith and community.

This quote by Walt Whitman, “Be curious, not judgmental,” resonates deeply with their approach to life and relationships. In coming to The Willows they have found that residents have embraced them fully and show their curiosity, often engaging in enriching conversations during meal times in our dining room. In reflecting on how The Willows makes an impact, Richard says, “A crucial dimension of progress and growth at The Willows, is the more diverse experiences with Christian Science represented by those coming to join us. We have such grace-filled occasions each day to love each other better, fuller, and more compassionately.”

We are grateful to have Richard and Jerri Davenport as part of our community and look forward to the continued impact they will have through their kindness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to fostering a caring and inclusive environment.