Laverne Willson was born Lois Laverne Smiley on November 14, 1919, in Altus, OK. She was the oldest of six children born to Roy and Ethel Owens Smiley. They moved to Bethany, OK when Laverne was very young.
She passed on to be with our Lord on October 9, 2010, in Bethany, OK, where she was a resident of Grace Living Center.
Laverne married Leroy Harrison in 1934. During their early married life they spent time in Oklahoma City and Alaska, before settling in Tulsa, OK. Leroy was a carpenter and Laverne worked for Service Pipeline as a bookkeeper. Leroy preceded her in death in 1959.
In 1964 she married Dean Willson. After they were married they moved to Hoisington, KS, where she became the bookkeeper for Dean’s oil company. She moved back to Oklahoma in 2007. Dean preceded her in death in 1986.
Laverne was a member of the Eastern Stars and was always very active in her church. She loved to go on
“The Casino Bus Runs” with a group from her church. She was also an avid Bridge player.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Ethel Smiley; three brothers, William Smiley, Roy Gene Smiley and Duane Smiley; and two sisters, Earlene Smiley Zimmerman and Wanda Smiley Gilbert.
She is survived by her son, Richard Harrison, of Oklahoma City; step-daughter, Pam Willson Welborn and husband Rick of Mcpherson, KS; and step-son, Brad Willson, of Alaska. Laverne has many loving and caring nieces and nephews. Brothers’ children: Larry Smiley, Gary Smiley, Ronnie Smiley, Debbie Smiley Hartman and Tina Smiley Hinds. Sisters’ children: Sherry Zimmerman Green, Calvin (Sonny) Zimmerman, Cathy Zimmerman Demastus, Cindy Gilbert Thompson, Leanne Gilbert Spann, Don Gilbert Jr. and Travis Gilbert. She also has many loving step-grandchildren and friends.
Laverne will always be remembered for her infectious laugh, smile, graciousness and dignity. She will be missed by all!
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, October 12, 2010, at the Bill Merritt Memorial Chapel in Bethany, OK. Reverend Larry Smiley with Chaplains for Racers for Christ, Godspeed Ministries, will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the charity of your choice.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18