Lela LaVonne Louth passed away quietly on April 26, 2011 in Cox South Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. LaVonne, as she was known, was born November 27, 1914 in Gassville, Arkansas, the daughter of Clifton and Minnie Marler Talbert. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, LaNell House, of California.
After graduation from high school in Mountain Home, Arkansas, she moved to Springfield with her parents in 1934. LaVonne was employed at Netter’s Department Store and was assistant manager of the Cotton Dress Shop there until her marriage. LaVonne and Ray Louth were united in marriage at the First Baptist Church in Springfield on November 26, 1939.
In addition to her husband Raymond, she is survived by son, James E. Louth and wife Suzanne; and daughter, Joyce L. Criswell and husband Harry, all of Springfield.
She is also survived by four grandchildren, Chris Criswell Van Landuyt, LeeAnn Neill and husband David, Dr. William Wester and wife Dr. Christine Wester, all of Springfield, and James Wester and wife Beth, of Plano, Texas.
Also surviving are eight great-grandchildren, Andrew and Caroline Neill; Michael, Christopher, Will, and Matthew Wester; Jane and Sarah Wester; and a special nephew, LaVelle Lowrey.
She was a long time faithful member of the First Baptist Church. LaVonne was a guiding light of faith, strength, and commitment to her family and friends and will be missed by all. She celebrated 71 years of marriage to Ray last November. No visitation is planned, and private family services and interment are scheduled for a later date.