Laverna Jean Washington

LaVerna Jean Washington, 71, passed away on Tuesday, May 3, 2016. Her strong will to live, unwavering faith in God, and the love and prayers of family, friends, and many supporters carried her through years of pain and suffering. Throughout her life she maintained a sweet and simple demeanor that won the trust and hearts of many, who even now are being changed by her witness of constant nurturing love and faith. Her signature gift of joy, shown through her constant smiling, laughter, and joking around, will never be forgotten. LaVerna, known to her family and friends as Vern, was born in Seattle, Washington on October 8, 1944. She graduated from Garfield High School. Later, in 1962, she married the love of her life, William. After traveling around the county and much of the world, as an Army wife, she worked in various jobs. In the summer of 1977, the family established residence in El Paso, TX, where she worked as a Sales Assistance for Smith Barney for a number of years. She later attended El Paso Community College where she graduated with an Associate's Degree in Education and became a Substitute Teacher for the El Paso Independent School District. Filled with compassion and interest in others, Vern made friends easily and maintained contact with many. She was an active member at Zion Lutheran Church, most notably for the service work done with the Ladies Guild (LWML) and Altar Care. LaVerna was preceded in death by her father, Herman Milas Sr. She leaves behind William III, her husband of 54 years, her mother Alice Lewis, sister: Herlicia Brown and her husband Walter, brothers: Herman, Mark, and Kevin; son: William IV; daughter: Crystal Thomas and her husband Mechell, grandsons: Xavier Washington and Christian Thomas, and granddaughter Chandler Thomas. Nieces: Keturah and Keilah Brown and a host of dear, long time friends. There will be a Private Viewing from 4:00PM -5:00PM, Tuesday, May 10, 2016, and with Visitation from 5:00PM-9:00PM at Sunset Funeral Home Northeast, 4631 Hondo Pass. The Funeral Service will be on Wednesday, May 11, 2016, 11:00AM at Zion Lutheran Church, 2800 Pershing Drive. The Burial will follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery at 1:00PM. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home Northeast. Please visit our online registry book at http://www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net