Laverne Varnell Neal
Laverne Varnell Neal, 88, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024. She was born in Ooltewah, Tennessee.
LaVerne had the personality and natural charisma to make friends, no matter the situation.
She grew up in a good Christian home and certainly provided the same for her own family. She truly loved the Lord.
LaVerne's ability to sacrifice, provide, support, forgive, and love will be forever ingrained in all those who had the pleasure of knowing her. Rest in peace Mom, Granny, and GG.
Her professional career was quite remarkable, not having completely retired until she was in her 80s. She was a graduate of UT Chattanooga, where she earned her bachelor's degree.
LaVerne worked diligently for years and would later retire from General Electric, National Life Insurance Company, and the Chattanooga Housing Authority. The C.H.A. was considered her most important career achievement because she was able to proudly place so many families into local housing who were previously displaced by Hurricane Katrina. Her role was so pivotal that her personal telephone number was broadcasted nationally for those seeking disaster housing relief.
LaVerne's many hobbies included music, both singing and playing the piano, reading, and spending precious time with her family.
She is survived by her daughter Kathie N. West; her son Robert Neal (Kathy); and her son David Geoffrey Neal; her sister-in-law Peggy Varnell; seven grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.
Laverne was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin Deward Varnell and Ada C. Haddock Varnell; her beloved husband, Charles W. Neal; her brothers, Kenneth Varnell and Paul Varnell; her sisters, Allene Johnson and Irene Jones.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, Jan. 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421.
A funeral service will follow visitation at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Pastors Doug Plumlee and Larry Williams officiating. The day of life celebration will conclude with a graveside committal service in the Varnell Cemetery, 8663 Varnell Lane, Ooltewah, Tn. 37363.
Visit www.chattanoogavalleyviewchapel.com to share condolences and view the memorial video tribute.
Arrangements are entrusted to Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel.