Laverne Smith, 92, of Brookhaven, MS passed peacefully on Monday, October 28, 2024. She was born to Lamar Lee Herring and Dora Dickey Herring on January 22, 1932 in Vicksburg, MS.

Laverne was a faithful and devoted member of Friendship Baptist Church for over 75 years. She served in numerous areas during that time including Sunday School teacher, nursery worker, and custodian until her retirement. Laverne was an avid reader, puzzle-worker, baker and cook, and she loved a competitive game of cards or dominoes. She was also known for being a gifted quilter. Before her health slowed her down, she loved traveling to new places on her many trips, spending Friday mornings at the Senior Center playing hand and foot with friends, and doing for others. She will be remembered for her selfless nature, God fearing, unwavering faith, love of family and friends, her freely given opinions, and feisty spirited nature.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lamar and Dora Herring; her husband, Loyd E. Smith; son L. Glen Smith; son-in-law, Stanley Gipson; siblings, Vivian Posey (Leonard), W.L. Herring (Darlene), and Tommy Herring.

Survivors include her daughters, Elaine Gipson and Nancy Haag (Bill); daughter-in-law, Sharon B. Smith; sister, Edith Smothers; grandchildren, Shay Gipson (Sherry), Chad Gipson (Holly), Tracie Johnston (Daniel), Hayley Haag Moak, Clancy Smith, and Marshall Morgan; great grandchildren, Sawyer Gipson, Carson Gipson, Will Moak, Harper Johnston, Rhett Johnston, Savannah Gipson, Lily Jo Gipson and Marley Morgan; as well as a host of nieces and nephews and friends; she is also survived by her long time family friends, Katie Reid and family and Betty Smith.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Dignity Hospice, Nova York and Dan Campbell, and the staff and caregivers at Trend Nursing Home.