Lavonia Kay Gilbert

1949 ∼ 2014

Lavonia Kay Odom Gilbert 65, of Groves passed away Thursday October 23, 2014 at her residence. Lavonia was born May 23, 1949 in Jasper, Texas to Alonzo Odom and Doris Hancock Odom. Lavonia was a co-owner of Occasions in Nederland were she was a decorator and Coordinator of events. She was a resident for Groves since 1968 and a former member of the Port Arthur Service League. She was active in the Groves, Nederland and Kirbyville communities. She supported her grandchildren in all of their many activities. She is a former member of the Kirbyville Heritage Society and her local Neighborhood Watch. Lavonia was married to her husband Donald for 33 years. She is survived by her daughters; Gretchin Marshall and husband Joe of Nederland, Holly Badon and husband Steve of Nederland and Becky Hanratty and husband Doug of Groves; son David Gilbert and wife Becky of Mandeville, Louisiana; sister Glenda McKinley and husband Charles Ray of Willis, Texas; grandchildren Caroline Badon, Burke Badon, Dillon Marshall, Michael Gilbert, Daniel Gilbert, Lauren Hanratty and Hunter Hanratty. Services will be held on Tuesday October 28, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at Levingston Funeral Home in Groves. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Condolences

Levingston Funeral Home November 2, 2021
1 file added to the album Obituary Wall
Lavonia Kay Odom Gilbert August 4, 2020
Lavonia Kay Gilbert
Anonymous October 30, 2014
I'm so sorry! Much prayers for the family!
Anonymous October 29, 2014
Dearest Holly & Family We are so deeply sorry for your loss, Your Mother's smile will be forever missed ! She was such a sweet lady that Bubba & I are grateful to have known .She would pass the florist and wave on her way home . We will miss her, Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you . Love & Sympathy Sherrill McComber & Wallace Phillips/ Phillips Florist
Anonymous October 29, 2014
Ours was a business relationships through the marriages of my daughters and son but she always managed to make your experience personal with that sweet laugh and sincere interest, I can't imagine how those of you and her family that had a close personal relationship will feel her loss. My prayers are with you all, she will be missed.
Anonymous October 29, 2014
We are praying for all of the family for God's comfort and peace to cover you in this difficult time.
Anonymous October 28, 2014
We are so very sorry to hear about your loss. Our hearts go out to each one of you and we will keep you all in our prayers. I know your Mom will be truly missed, she was a wonderful person. We have lots of Danceworks days memories with your family. Our love, The Forse Family
Anonymous October 28, 2014
I never got the pleasure of meeting Lavonia- my other co workers did and had nothing but wonderful things to always say of her. I did however get to speak to her on the phone almost daily and receive emails weekly while working with her & Holly - Her pleasant voice was always so delightful and so very friendly- It was a shock to hear of this tragedy- My heart hurts for such a beautiful spirited person could be taken away along with her husband. My heart, prayers & thoughts go out to all her loved ones affected by this. May God Bless you all thru this and carry you through it. Holly, I am so very sorry and my deepest condolences. Marizza GBS Linens- Houston, TX
Anonymous October 28, 2014
May happy memories always be a source of comfort during this difficult time. One day soon, suffering and death will be removed forever - Revelation Chapter 21 verses 3 and 4.
Anonymous October 28, 2014
I'm so very sorry for your loss and pray for comfort for each of Lavonia's loved ones. I went to school with her in Kirbyville and only have fond memories of her. My heart breaks for your loss. May God be with you.
Anonymous October 28, 2014
Gretchen and Holly, I'm thinking of you and praying for you. Love, Lisa
Anonymous October 28, 2014
Mrs. Gilbert everytime I saw you, it was a breathe of fresh air. You always had a wonderful smile and glow. It was the same way with your beautiful daughter Holly. You will be truly missed by family and friends. I am praying for strength for your family to get through this trying time. We will see you in the morning. --Kristi Floyd
Anonymous October 28, 2014
Holly, I offer my deepest and sincere sympathy to you and your family. I pray that God comfort and strengthen you. Remember..God has All the answers and is perfect in our weakness. Lean on Him for understanding, peace and direction. Sincerely, Tracy Cohea Robinson
Anonymous October 28, 2014
Gretchin and Family, I was so heartbroken for you all when I heard about the passing of your mother, Lavonia. I remember her coming by the office at Buckner all the time and hearing her laugh. Since then I always saw her at Nederland school events supporting her grandchildren and even cheering on Nathan as well! She always offered a lively hello and a hug! I wish I could have been there today, but please know that my thoughts and prayers will be with all of you today. Peace and Comfort, George, Nancy, and Nathan
Anonymous October 28, 2014
Praying for the family and friends of Mrs. Lavonia. Her smile, sweet spirit, and creative insight will be truly missed. May you'll find peace in knowing the memories and legacy she left with this community.
Anonymous October 28, 2014
God bless you and your family
Anonymous October 28, 2014
We are so sorry for your loss. Ms. Lavonia was always so delightful to be around. We will miss her. We will continue to keep your family in our prayers.
Anonymous October 28, 2014
Lavonia, you are truly missed. Your bright smile, warm hugs and contagious laughter will forever be in our hearts. Holly and Gretchen, please know that we have you in our prayers and are here for you. Your loss is so great and I pray that you find peace.
Anonymous October 28, 2014
So sorry for your loss! Thoughts & Prayers are with the family! God Bless!
Anonymous October 28, 2014
My deepest sympathies goes out to the family. Will be in my prayers, they will be truly missed.
Anonymous October 27, 2014
So sorry for the loss of your parents/grandparents. Praying for GOD to wrap his arms around each and every one of you & provide you with PEACE, FAITH, & UNDERSTANDING during this tragic time. Always remember how much they loved you & keep their memories alive in your heart. Glenda, prayers for you also as I'm sure you feel the loss of not only a sister, but also as a treasured friend.
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Lavonia will be missed by our entire community. She was a very lovely lady whom was always smiling and helpful. I saw her at all of her grand children's activities. May God's loving arms surround you all in his peace.
Anonymous October 27, 2014
I am very sorry to hear of your loss.I only met your folks at my son and daughter in laws wedding. They did set up and take down....Your family was so kind and your mom acted like she had known me always...Corey and Caitlin's wedding was beautiful...so just to let you know I will keep your entire family in my prayers in the weeks and months to come...May the Lord bless you and comfort you...Janis Pokraka
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Glenda, I will have you and all of the family in my prayers. I know that she has been greeted with open arms by Aunt Doris and Uncle Lonnie and with a special smile and treat from Grandpa Odom. Some day we will have another Odom family reunion up there and what a day of rejoicing we will have. Till then we will miss Lavonia's smile and laughing eyes.
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Holly - Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss ... my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Keeping all of you in my heart and prayers. Xoxox
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Lavonia will be greatly missed. she has been a co worker in many of our events, weddings ect. I have had the great pleasure of working with her on many jobs. my sincerest sympathy goes out to her family she will be dearly missed. James Perrio @ Twigs Florist Beaumont Texas
Anonymous October 27, 2014
My prayers are with you all at this time. Love to you all.
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Lavonia, Will be missed. She was a jewel in the wedding industry and always a joy to work with. You are in our thoughts and prayers. -The Ortiz Family Ortiz Formalwear
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Lavonia lit up every room she entered with her infectious smile and loving spirit. She will be missed tremendously. Rest in peace my friend. God wrap your arms around this family and give them strength and comfort.
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Words can never begin to express the sadness I feel for the loss of my first cousin, Lavonia. We grew up near each other and these childhood memories keep racing thru my mind. I loved her and Glenda so much, although thru past years we have all drifted apart. So glad I saw her last week. We made up for lost time, hugging, laughing, re-living old times. We parted with promises to stay in touch...God bless this family. Glenda Sue, I love you....We're going to stay in touch...Life is so short....Your cousin, Patricia Jordan Watson
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Lavonia will be missed. She always had a smile and lit up every room she walked in. Prayers for the family during this time and the days to come.
Anonymous October 27, 2014
I met Lavonia and Holly while planning my daughter's wedding. We felt like family after the first five minutes. Lavonia always had a smile on her face and they did a wonderful job with the wedding and reception. My prayers go out to you Holly and all of your family.
Anonymous October 27, 2014
Holly and family, We are so saddened at the loss of your mother and stepfather. You are in our thoughts and prayers and we hope you can find peace and comfort in the days to come. Kerry, Pam, and Danielle Viator
Anonymous October 27, 2014
I was so shocked to hear of this tragedy. Lavonia was always a smiling, happy person when I knew her back in high school. Take comfort that people thought highly of her friendliness.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Lavonia's family is in my thoughts and prayers for peace and comfort during this sad time. She was a special person to all who knew her, and I will always hold her in my heart.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Joe and Gretchen and Dillon Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this most difficult time. May you feel the love of Jesus wrapping you in his arms. Garland and Lucy
Anonymous October 26, 2014
What a wonderful family. I haven't been around them for years but what wonderful memories I have from the years that Ms. Doris was part of our Gibson's store family in Jasper and one special wedding we all attended in Port Arthur way back when. Doris and Lavonia were always full of smiles and blessed my life. Prayers to the families.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
I have the fondest memories of Mrs. Lavonia and Mr.Don who loved me as if I were one of their own children during my middle and high school years as I was a cheerleader with Holly at Thomas Edison and Thomas Jefferson. I have always rant and raved to anyone who would listen about how special they made me feel and I WILL NEVER FORGET that and I will never forget them. They are truly loved by so many. Thanks for sharing them with so many.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
I am so deeply saddened upon learning of this tradgedy. I have been relecting back on our school days @ Kirbyville & of all the funtimes that the class of 1967 shared. I shall never forget the beautiful & so very sweet girl. I close my eyes & I see Lavonia at our pep rallies twirling & I might add one of the best KHS ever had. My heart goes out to the family & I pray for Gods sweet Grace & Love to surround this family
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Hello. I graduated in Kirbyville in 1963 and knew Lavonia well. Mostly, I guess I know Glenda. Glenda, I lost my sister in 2010 and believe me I know how it hurts. God bless you and go through this beside you. Love Hester(Stidevent)
Anonymous October 26, 2014
I have only met this sweet family through planning my daughter's wedding. I am so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Lavonia was such a sweet lady. Prayers go out to the family.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
My heart goes out to the family. We went to Kirbyville High School together and Lavonia was always smiling and full of joy. Glenda, May God grant you the peace and courage to help her daughters. Prayers for the whole family.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
I REMEMBER YOU AS THE SWEET PRETTY SISTER OF ONE OF MY SCHOOL FRIENDS.. GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY
Anonymous October 26, 2014
I will miss your beautiful smile and how it lit up a room. You were a light in so many people's lives. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and dear friends.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Oh my heart is saddened.You will truly be missed....From your loving smile to your welcoming embrace. .. From the crew at Pam's Creations rest well my dear!
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Love & prayers to Lavonia's family..
Anonymous October 26, 2014
From an old friend, with loving memories of you, Lavonia. Praying for you & your beautiful family. Julia Moore White
Anonymous October 26, 2014
So sorry for your loss. Your family will be in our thoughts & prayers.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
So sorry for your loss. The Lord can and will see your through this time. You will be in my prayers. Love you Glenda.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Prayers for all of you. The smiles and laughter that she brought to me will be greatly missed. She will be remembered always. May God wrap his arms around all of you in these moments and forever.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
My prayers and condolences to Lavonia's family. I cherish having had her friendship. God bless you all.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
My prayers are with the family and friends of Lavonia - God's loving arms will hold you close to help deal with the sorrow now and to come.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Sending prayers for God's comfort to all of you. Will never forget her beautiful smile and contagious laugh. What an elegant lady and what a wonderful marriage they shared and legacy they left behind in each of you.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
I am so sorry over your devastating loss. God bless your whole family at this sad time.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of two dear and longtime friends.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Lavonia and Don during this difficult time. "Blessed are those who mourn,for they will be comforted" Matthew 5:4
Anonymous October 26, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. I went to school with Lavonia in Kirbyville. I remember her a very lovely girl and well respected. May she rest in peace.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Praying for all of you.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Had the wonderful privilege of meeting your sweet mom while planning a wedding. She had a wonderful way of making everyone feel special. Praying that you will feel Gods love, strength and peace surrounding you during this most difficult time.
Anonymous October 26, 2014
Please except my condolences, I work with Debbie Blackwell, she is a great person and I know she is feeling very sad right now.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this tragic time. Lavonia was such a fine, sweet lady and will be greatly missed.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
Lavonia was one of the sweetest ladies I've ever met, such a giving and precious heart. You will be missed. May God hold your family close and bring comfort to their hearts. The Taylor's, Wedge, Tammy, Cody & Noah.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
So sorry to hear of your loss. We pray that the Holy Spirit will comfort you during this difficult time.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
her smile...honest advice... Laugh...hugs are just a few things that can never be replaced. I will forever miss her a keep her in my heart. I'm praying for Gretchin and Holly and all of her precious grand babies she so proudly loved May God please give them the strenghth for peace and comfort in this time ⠤️ love you Beautiful lady
Anonymous October 25, 2014
Holly lifting you and the entire family up in Prayer....C/O 89
Anonymous October 25, 2014
She was MOM to me as I so loving called her. She will always be loved and missed. Praying for the strength of her children and grandchildren. Love, Paulette
Anonymous October 25, 2014
My deepest sympathy to Holly and family. Continued prayers during this difficult time.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
our family is so sorry for your loss. We are praying that God carries you through this. There are no words to make it easier, just know everyone is praying
Anonymous October 25, 2014
Our prayers go out to your entire family for strength and peace during this most difficult time. We loved your sweet mom. She was always a "happy moment" everywhere she went. Blessings!
Anonymous October 25, 2014
My heart is broken with yours! Never met a sweeter more genuine person! Thoughts and prayers to you and yours! May God keep you in his loving arms! Will miss that smile and laugh.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
My heart is breaking I will miss her She was a ray of sunshine
Anonymous October 25, 2014
I cannot begin to imagine what your family is going through. Holly, I am so sorry about your mom and step dad. I pray that God comforts you all during this tragic time. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. I will sure miss her smiling face
Anonymous October 25, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Mrs.Lovonia she was such a beautiful spirit,a wonderful woman a beautiful mother and grandmother and friend I will miss you until we meet again on the otherside my friend! Debbi Lorthridge
Anonymous October 25, 2014
I will never forget you my friend I will never forget your smile your laugh and your warmth. You were a big Gift to everyone who met you. A really great finely wrapped present I am thankful to have known you. Until we meet again I will pray for your family. Love Ya ........
Anonymous October 25, 2014
So sorry to hear of your loss! Sandy Cessac Gereau
Anonymous October 25, 2014
Praying for all the family.Love you.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
So sorry for your loss, Lavonia was a sweet soul! Praying for her family.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
We will miss you oh so much.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
Gretchen&Holly,my heart is broke for you and your kids.What an extrodinary amazing woman your precious mom was.She brightened and changed a lot of lives.I'm so sorry you lost your mom.Lavonia,you were one of the brightest lights in my heart.I have loved you like a sister for many years.God bless your family.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
My prayers or with this sweet and lovely family. Lavonia was a happy sweet always smiling friend. She will be truly missed but never forgotten. To Glenda I love you and miss you.
Anonymous October 25, 2014
The world will never be the same without the love and laughter of Lavonia. She has enriched my life so much and I am forever thankful to have had her in my life. She was my role model and will continue to be for the rest of my life. Holly, Gretchin, Becky, David, and family, I love you all dearly and I am praying for comfort over you all.