Mrs. LaVerne L. Rogers-Smith's Obituary
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. - Psalm 23:6
Mrs. LaVerne L. Rogers-Smith transitioned from labor to reward on July 12, 2024.
With profound sadness and enduring love, we announce the passing of LaVerne Lynn Rogers Smith, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Laverne’s life was a testament to the power of love, dedication, and unwavering strength.
LaVerne was the third child born to Laverne Thomas Thornton and Hazel Vivian Easley Thornton in Kansas City, Missouri on May 24, 1951. She entered eternal rest on July 12, 2024. She was preceded in death by both parents, siblings Ronald Thornton and Carol Thornton Bland, her late husband Michael Rogers, son, Maco Hatten, daughter, Sabrina Smith Sundberg, mother-in-law, Mary Helen Jones Smith, and father-in-law, Rev. Donald Lee Smith.
Her early education was at Greenwood Elementary and continued at Central Jr. and Central Sr. High School, graduating in the class of 1969. LaVerne participated in many activities throughout high school. She was in Future Teachers of America, Latin club, Pep club, Practical Nursing Group, YMCA Modern Dance Troupe, and Homecoming Princess (1969).
LaVerne became a Registered Nurse by attending Penn Valley Community College and continued to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from St. Mary's College, and later received a master’s degree in healthcare administration from University of San Francisco. She was a dedicated and compassionate nurse who devoted over 40 years to serving and helping others.
She married Billy Ray Smith on November 28, 1992, and together they shared a beautiful, blended family. She is survived by her devoted spouse, Billy Ray Smith, and her beloved children: Nickhelle Hatten Johnson (Richard), DaShawna Hatten-Bowers (Ed), Nicole Rogers, Kevin Rogers, Billy Smith Jr., Carmen Donaldson (Ronnie), and Kenneth Smith.
Her legacy will live on through her grandchildren: Rahni Johnson Kellum (Travis), Amahni Bowers, Emihl Bowers (Aquera), Richard Johnson Jr., Rhaina Johnson, King Nichols Johnson, Traeton Wilson Bowers, Kevin Rogers II, Diona Mims, Michael Mims, Kiona Rogers, Nicholas Rogers, Shirel Smith, Billy Ray Smith III, Alyse Smith, Zymariae Smith, and Keliah Smith. She was blessed with great-grandchildren: Cruz, Kassius, Kree, Michael, TaNiyah, Cameron, Ella, Jakari, Arturo, Antonio, Amor, Kimora, Karmello, Billy, and Romeo.
Her memory will be cherished by many including her sisters Bonita Thornton, Camilla Nelson, Melanie Gordon, Pamela Thornton, her oldest and dearest friend Janice Anderson, Godson Jason Anderson, mother-in-law, Naomi Rogers, first husband, Steve Hatten, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.
LaVerne was a woman of faith and perseverance. She was skilled at sewing, loved to travel, indulged in romance novels, and was an enthusiastic fan of the Golden State Warriors. Her adventurous spirit and love for life were evident in everything she did.
We invite all who knew and loved LaVerne to join us in celebrating her extraordinary life. Her light will continue to shine in our hearts and memories forever.
Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 11:00 am at Loose Park, 5200 Wornall, Kansas City, MO 64112. Golden State Warriors attire recommended.
Repass Picnic immediately following (same location Loose Park).
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