Lavern Gilley

(From Bopp Chapel)

LaVern passed away surrounded by her family s love on August 29, 2022 at the age of 71. She is survived by her devoted husband Horace of 41 years, son Jasen (Anne), son Eric (Cecilia), and granddaughters Madison, Isabelle, and Elizabeth. LaVern was preceded in death by her parents, Claude and Esther Lowder, and sister, Claudine Long.

LaVern was a graduate of Missouri Southern State University and served as a child advocate while working for the Missouri Department of Social Services-Children s Division prior to a 25 year career as a long-term substitute teacher for Saint Louis Public Schools. 

Those who knew LaVern knew of her kind and infectious smile, humorous and persuasive speech, compassionate and feisty personality, her unconditional love for her family, and her unwavering nature to always stand up for what was right, even in toughest of times. LaVern will be dearly missed by her loved ones.

Memorial Visitation Sunday, September 11th, 2022 1:00-4:00 pm at Bopp Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Youth In Need and/or the National Brain Tumor Society as LaVern was passionate about helping children in need and suffered from Meningioma for over a decade.