Gladys Carlean Nyhart Davenport, 98, lived a life marked by hard work, curiosity, and deep devotion to family and community. She was born on July 19, 1927, in Twin Bridges, Montana, to Frances and Vina Nyhart, where she was raised and graduated from Twin Bridges High School. She went on to attend Dillon Normal College, continuing her education with the same determination that would define her life.
During World War II, Gladys answered the call to serve on the home front, moving to Spokane, Washington, where she worked as a bus driver on the Air Force base—playing her part in supporting the war effort with quiet strength and resolve.
On June 12, 1946, she married the love of her life, Floyd Davenport, in Butte, Montana. Together they built a beautiful life and welcomed three daughters: Carol Rozeanne, Vickie, and Sharon. Floyd and Gladys shared many passions, especially camping under Montana skies, mining for gold, and dancing—always finding joy in adventure and in each other.
Gladys’s career was as colorful as her personality. She worked for the Montana Highway Patrol and the Wool Growers Association, but her favorite and most enduring role was as a radio broadcaster—a career she cherished for more than 40 years. Through the airwaves, she became a familiar and trusted voice, connecting communities with warmth, wit, and authenticity.
Above all else, Gladys was a devoted grandmother, pouring love, encouragement, and pride into her family. Her legacy lives on in the stories she told, the music she loved, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and spirit.
Gladys will be remembered for her independence, her adventurous heart, and her unwavering love for family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, joy, and a life well lived.
Survivors include, sister Shirley Hall, Daughters Vickie (Roy) Miller, Sharon (Randy) Smith; grandchildren, Shelley (Barry) Lewis, Cory (Chappell) Smith, Jason (Andrea) Miller, Treavor (Briana) Smith, Katie (Kevin) Steiner; great grandchildren: Paige, Madison, Nick, Ryan, Brynn, Kendall, Logan, Chace, Miller, Fletcher, Beckett; great great grandchild: Miles and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the incredible staff at Renaissance Senior Care for caring for Gladys like she was their own Grandma.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday January 2, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Friday January 2, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial
Following the Reception
Friday January 2, 2026
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Heroes Row
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday January 2, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Friday January 2, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial
Following the Reception
Friday January 2, 2026
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Heroes Row
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Share
Greg Synness says
Gladys and Floyd were dear friends of ours for many years .She was an amazing lady. My condolences to her family.
Robert Pennington says
What a delightful lady! We had a lot of fun working together at the State. She was one of the hardest workers I have seen. Rest in Peace. You will be missed!
Kristi & Lee Paulsen says
Vicky, Sharon and family, I have very fond memories of Gladys and Floyd! When Shelley lived in Helena I got to spend time with them and all the family! What fun we had! My condolences to the family. RIP Gladys. Hugs.
Stan Morrison says
I had the pleasure of working with Gladys for many years at KBLL radio and knew her years before because of the Brockway/Morrison connection. Both Gladys and Floyd were wonderful and always a joy to be around.
To all the Davenport family, my sincere condolences and please know know that Gladys and Floyd were loved by many.
Dorothy Thiede says
Dear Vickie and Sharon, I remember your mommas smile. While playing up near your house, with Ruth Ann, live was great. Your momma was a friendly lady. My condolences to you and your family. Rest in peace dear
Karyl Williams says
Sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. How the years fly by. I knew her when I was a teenager and my mom took care of you three girls. I will try to be at her service. I have been in the hospital so will see how I feel. Love you karyl
Myrna and Leny mason says
She was a very special lady and I am so fortunate to have her as a friend in my life. Our hearts are sad for all of you.
Judy Ordahl says
So sorry to about your mom she was so pleasant to visit with and know she will be so missed.. Thinking of all of you and sending our love and hugs.
DeTonancour says
Sharon and Vickie & family, I know I speak for my entire family, the Davenports were life long friends to all of us. Gladys was a special lady and helped raise an amazing family. She will be in my heart for ever. I amso sorry for this loss. I am praying for you all.
Detta
Diane says
To all the Davenport family: I am so sorry to learn that Gladys has passed away. She was a wonderful person and always put a smile on the faces of people she was with. I have known her for many years and she will be missed by me and so many more people. God bless her now and God bless her family at this difficult time. Sincerely Diane Pedersen
Susan Bass Proul says
To her family…while I don’t think I met her in person I have many memories of my dad talking of her and their radio days together. I’m sure she is talking it up with those who have gone before her …Cato Butler, Al Johnson, Bud Iwen and my dad Terry Bass just to name a few. May your memories stay strong in your hearts always.
John & Cherie Dahl says
I got to know Gladys years ago when I was on the same bowling team as Floyd. Fine lady 👍🙏
WALLY PEEL says
Vickie and Sharon,
I am deeply saddened to hear of your Mom’s passing. She was a very special Lady and a delight to know. Looking back, some of my fondest memories are of the fun times spent with her and your Dad over the years. Sending you my deepest condolences and wishing you and your families peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Teresa Dennis says
Gladys was my aunt im deeply saddened to hear of her passing. She was a very sweet and caring lady. Sending you all my deepest condolences.
Jack Schilla, Valier, Montana says
Gladys was a stalwart behind the scenes force for the many years I worked at KBLL Radio & Televsion. Her husband Floyd & I were fortunate in harvesting elk in Galena Gulch near Basin, Montana, & I have very fond memories of Floyd & Gladas. Gladys was always a kind. generous woman to work with.
Jack Schilla, Valier, Montana says
Gladys was a stalwart behind the scenes force for the many years I worked at KBLL Radio & Televsion. Her husband Floyd & I were fortunate in harvesting elk in Galena Gulch near Basin, Montana, & I have very fond memories of Floyd & Gladas. Gladys was always a kind. generous woman to work with.
Dave Brockway says
I just saw this notice and am heartbroken, but not sad, because Gladys had a wonderful life with wonderful friends and family surrounding her. This is a time to think back about the impact that Floyd and Gladys had on all of us. The Davenport and Brockway families were very much intertwined in everything for as long as I can remember and are part of who I am.