Laverne D. Griffin

Laverne D. Griffin was born November 14, 1937 in Reddick, Florida to parents, Chester Brown, Sr. and Hester Davis. Laverne’s Christian journey began at an early age as a member of Mount Olive Baptist Church in Reddick, Florida, where she sang in the choir. Laverne’s mother stressed the importance of an education and self-sufficiency. Laverne graduated from Fessenden High School, Martin, Florida, in 1956 as class valedictorian. During her high school years, Laverne was also a valuable player on the girls’ basketball team. After high school, Laverne journeyed to Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Her teaching career began with a teaching position with the Marion County Public School System, Ocala, Florida. She taught at Jones and Howard Elementary Schools. Laverne took a professional leave of absence to obtain her Master’s Degree in Counseling at Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, and returned to Marion County as a Guidance Counselor at Osceola Middle School. After several years, Laverne moved to Lake County and continued her career. Laverne’s tenure with the Lake County School System continued until her retirement. Laverne was a dedicated sister, wife, mother grandmother, great-grandmother, and mother-in-law. She worked tirelessly to provide for her family. Her professionalism and attention to detail as a Guidance Counselor, coupled with compassion and love were unmatched and incomparable. She served many students over 36-years of tenure. She formed special friendships and bonds with many of her co-workers. She also worked alongside her husband’s business, Tamjo Signs as his personal assistant and bookkeeper. Laverne was a great conversationalist. She was a confidant and counselor to many imparting wisdom and daily pearls. After retirement, Laverne continue to do the things she loved. She enjoyed cooking delectable meals for her family. She also enjoyed talking on the phone daily to family and friends. “Her clothing is silk and purple”. Laverne took pride in her appearance, and she had an impeccable sense of style. She was always clothed in the finest linen. Not only was she clothed outwardly, but inwardly her character was clothed in strength and honor. Laverne was a prime example of a virtuous woman. (Excerpts from Proverbs 31:10-31) Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, her clothing is silk and purple. Strength and honor are her clothing. Her children arise up and call her blessed. A woman that feared the Lord, she shall be praised! Give her of the fruit of her hands and let her own works praise her in the gates. Laverne was preceded in death by her Father, Chester Brown, Sr.; Mother, Hester Davis; and Husband, John Griffin; Brother, Chester Brown, Jr., Nephew, Kelvin Buie. Left to cherish her precious memory: her loving Son, Michael Dozier (Rosemary) of Groveland, Florida; Stepson, Joseph Griffin of Tallahassee, Florida; Stepdaughters: Joannie Griffin of Orlando, Florida and Tamu Griffin of Tallahassee, Florida; Siblings: Shirley Howard (Roger) of Reddick, Florida, Irene Morgan (Willie) of Syracuse, New York, Rogers Brown (Ola) of Reddick, Florida, and Annie Jean Richardson of Reddick, Florida; Granddaughter, Michaela Rose; Great-grandson, Zion King Dozier; Nieces and Nephews: Chris, Calvin, Diamond, Miranda, Michelle, and Bart; and a host of other loving relatives and friends.

Tributes

Laverne D. Griffin

November 14, 1937 - June 29, 2023