LaVerne Butler Blair

A native Arizonan, LaVerne was born to John and Ruth Butler on a small farm in Peoria on May 28, 1921. She completed her life’s journey on December 24, 2012, at the age of 91. She graduated from Phoenix Union High School, then Phoenix College in 1941. The only time she resided outside of Arizona was during World War II, when she lived in Salt Lake City. Upon her return to Phoenix, she started her family of three children and a career with Salt River Project (SRP). In 1976, she was promoted to manager in Customer Service for SRP, the first woman to hold that job.

As she worked sometimes two additional part-time jobs and raised her family, LaVerne never lacked the energy for enjoying others. She spent many summer weekends working with the families at Mormon Lake Lodge near Flagstaff. In 1968, she joined the Arizona Roamers, traveling the state with families and their dune buggies many weekends until 1997.

While at SRP, she served as president of the Booster Board and was awarded the SRP Carl Able Volunteer Award. LaVerne also served as secretary for the SRP Los Viejos’ group.

After 33 years with SRP, she retired to begin her second career as a volunteer. Her dedication to the Back-To-School Clothing Drive, the Alumni Board for Phoenix College and the Looney Tooners’ Kitchen Band made a difference in so many lives. And, still with time to spare, LaVerne became chairperson of the 1939 graduating class from Phoenix Union for many reunions.

LaVerne could brighten anyone’s day with a great joke, a sparkling smile and a positive attitude. She will be missed. She is survived by her sisters Nona Guill and Eddie Lundeen; children Ed Struble, Karen Struble and Tracy Greis; four grandchildren; three great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and her daughter-in-law Shirley Jacobs and son-in-law Leo Cunningham. A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held for LaVerne at a future date.

Donations in her name may be made to the Phoenix College Alumni Association.