Betty “Lavon” Moore, age 91, peacefully passed away with loved ones by her side, on October 17, 2023, at her home in Springfield. Lavon was born to Ernie and Clara (Inman) Privett in Ava, Missouri, on July 19, 1932. Lavon was raised in Ava and graduated from Ava High School in 1950. In 1984, Lavon married “Big Bill” Moore. The couple shared 26 years of marriage before Bill’s untimely passing in 2010. Lavon dedicated her life to being a loving homemaker and mother.

For many years, Lavon was an active member of the Shriner’s Mustang Club, the Shriner’s Rainbow Ladies, and a local Elks Lodge. She and her husband enjoyed making a significant difference in the lives of children through various Shriner events and fundraisers.

Lavon was known for being a flashy dresser with a flair for colorful language. She was always beautifully dressed and meticulously accessorized. She was particularly fond of her jewelry collection and the bling it provided. Lavon enjoyed going to Casinos, playing slot machines, and chatting with fellow gamers. She loved to play cards with family and friends, especially pitch. Lavon was also a Bingo enthusiast; she could play for hours without getting bored or tired. While Lavon enjoyed listening to country and western music, she also liked Tom Jones—a lot! Lavon was an avid St. Louis Cardinal’s fan, and she had great affection for Yadier Molina, Albert Pujols, and Adam Wainwright. Lavon also boasted about Patrick Lavon Mahomes being “named after her.” She will long be remembered as a spunky, witty, strong-willed woman who loved her family beyond measure.

Lavon was preceded in death by her parents, Ernie and Clara Privett; husband, Bill Moore; and her best friend for many years, Elaine McKinney. She is survived by her son, Don Daves and his wife, Kathy; daughter, Tammy Cook and her husband, Christopher; granddaughter, Julie Cavin and her husband, Scott; grandson, Ben Daves and his wife, Jennifer; granddaughter, Lori Cook; grandson, Matthew Cook; and great-grandchildren, Richard Cavin, Nathan Cavin, Tyler Cavin, Hadley Daves, and Jillian Daves.

Lavon’s family is grateful for the exceptional care and support provided by Julie Cavin and Cheryl Palmer during the last few weeks of Lavon’s life. They are also appreciative of the loving care provided by Integrity Hospice, especially Joyce and Suzanne.

A visitation for Lavon Moore will be held on Monday, October 23, 2023, from 10:00-11:00 am, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield. Lavon’s funeral service will be held immediately following her visitation at 11:00 am. Lavon will be laid to rest next to her husband in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Lavon’s memory to the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri. Lavon loved all animals, especially her cherished Pekingese pets.