On September 7th, 1952, Mr. Walter Lee and Pearlie Hawkins welcomed their second born child into the world, a daughter who they named her LaVerne. LaVerne, along with her older sister Mona and younger brother Walter Jr, was raised in a loving and Christian home in Carthage, AR. LaVerne may have been the middle child, but she was definitely the boss. At an early age, LaVerne was baptized and became a member of First Baptist Church Carthage where she was an active member until she relocated to further her education after graduating from Carthage Public Schools in 1970. LaVerne attended AM&N College, now known as the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and later she relocated to Little Rock, AR. In 1982, LaVerne started her career at the University of Arkansas of Medical Sciences (UAMS) as a Human Resource Consultant. While at UAMS LaVerne was the light and laughter of the office. In June of 2020, after 38 years, 8months, and 17 days LaVerne retired from UAMS. Post retirement LaVerne worked for the Malvern School District as a Substitute Teacher. LaVerne married the love of her life William Earl Jones on February 1st, 1988. Through this union she gained two wonderful daughters Rosemary and Misty whom she loved and raised as her own. LaVerne and William later welcomed a beautiful baby girl whom they named Whitney Elise. LaVerne was a lover of Christ. She was always active in church no matter where she resided. While in Little Rock, LaVerne became a member of Gaines Street Baptist Church where she was a member of the choir and made many lifelong friends. After marrying William, LaVerne relocated to Malvern, AR. While in Malvern LaVern became a member of First Baptist Church Vine. She served as building fund captain, a member of the hospitality committee, and the Usher board. LaVerne was a member of the Perla Gate-White Lilly #23 chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, where she served as Worthy Matron for short time. LaVerne found joy in nurturing her plants, capturing moments with pictures, and immersing herself in the uplifting sounds of gospel music. Her biggest love was cooking for her family and friends. She was always cooking up a pot of greens or her famous German chocolate cake. On March 2nd, 2025, the Lord called LaVerne home. She was welcomed by her parents, her husband of 32 years, and her only sister. Those left to continue her legacy include her daughters Whitney Jones, Misty Nolen (Nathan) both of Little Rock, AR. Rosemary McMahan of Malvern, AR. Four grandchildren: Jared Walker (Charity), Tyra McMahan, Kyan Lewis, and Noah Nolen. Three great grandchildren: Jaiya, LJ, and Zuri. Her brother Bishop Walter Hawkins Jr. (Annette). Bonus sons Larry Dedman (Shelia) and Darryl Harrison. Bonus grandchildren Isaiah and Iris Dedmon. Her nieces and nephews whom she loved and cared for as her very own: Ericka, Ishanda, Kaidesha, Brian, Maurio, Jordan, and Marco. Her best friends for many years Bessie Clegg and Patricia James; and a host great nieces and nephews, cousins and many extended relatives and friends. You are my strength Strength like no other Strength like no other Reaches to me You are my hope Hope like no other Hope like no other Reaches to me Samuel L. Vance & Sons Funeral Directors " The Epitome of Service "

WILL LIE IN PEACEFUL REPOSE Saturday, March 15, 2025 10:00 AM - 10:55 AM First Baptist Church - Vine 220 Vine Street Malvern, AR 72104 Celebration of Life Saturday, March 15, 2025 11:00 AM First Baptist Church - Vine 220 Vine Street Malvern, AR 72104