Laverne (Willis) Wilson

Laverne Willis Wilson entered into this earthly realm on February 18, 1950, to the union of the late Charncy, Sr. and Iris Nelson Willis.

Laverne was educated in the Longview Independent School District, graduating with the class of 1967 of Mary C. Womack High School. She went on to further her education majoring in Music with a minor in Education in attendance at Texas College, Tyler, Texas. 

At an early age, Laverne accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior and joined the Pleasant Hill Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church, where she also served for many years as musician.  She later became full-time musician of Lewis Chapel CME Church where she faithfully served until her health no longer permitted.  After twenty seven years of service as musician, Lavern was extremely proud that she became a member of Lewis Chapel CME Church under the leadership of her first cousin and former pastor, Rev. Travis L. Stinson. Laverne was one of the most gifted and recognized musicians in the East Texas and surrounding areas.

In her professional career, Laverne was employed as a Payroll Clerk with National Linen Service and as an Executive Secretary with the American Heart Association. As an entrepreneur, Laverne was the founder and owner of Wilson Custodial Services where she employed numerous family members and friends. 

The doors to Laverne’s home were always open to receive family and friends and became a place of refuge as well as home for those who needed a helping hand. She was a loving, caring and giving soul who extended assistance to anyone in need. To know Lavern was to love her. Every conversation with Laverne always ended with a heartfelt sentiment, “I love you baby”. 

Laverne entered her heavenly reward on Saturday November 5, 2022, in Longview, TX.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Helen Louise Willis Skinner, daughter, Sandra Denise Wilson, and grandson, Benandre’ Wilson.

Those left to cherish her memories include two sons, James “Toby” Earl Wilson, Jr. and Brandon Frederick Willis both of Longview, TX; grandchildren, Brandon Ladameon Wilson (Roshea) and KeUndria Wilson both of Shreveport, LA, Shaylor Gallagher, Devin Wooten, Matt Cox, all of Longview, TX; and nine great grandchildren. 
Laverne is also survived by her brothers, Charncy Willis, Jr. (Wanda), Donald Ray Willis, Trennis “Trey” Earl Willis (Katie), all of Longview, TX and Rev. Larry Donal Willis (Kathy) of Dallas, TX and sister, Rev. Sheila J. Willis of Longview TX; two aunts, Alice Stinson and Veola Riggins both of Longview TX and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, extended family, and friends.
 

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