Lizette Chambers Vavrina, age 85, passed away peacefully November 5, 2013 after courageously battling a lengthy illness. Visitation will be held Monday, November 11 from 6-8 p.m. at Heartland Funeral Home in Early. Graveside services will be on Tuesday, November 12 at 2 p.m. at the Wolf Valley Cemetery.
She was born at the family homeplace in northern Brown County in the farm and ranching community of Wolf Valley. Her parents were W. R. Chambers, a State Representative for 16 years, and Mary Spence Chambers. Lizette was the youngest of eight children. She graduated from May High School and earned a degree from Tarleton College. Lizette enjoyed her college years and worked on the J-TAC yearbook. After graduation she accepted a job in Austin with the state of Texas.
Lizette married John F. Vavrina on March 28, 1948 in Austin, Texas where he was stationed at Bergstrom Air Force Base. She was a supportive Air Force wife as they moved frequently during his military career throughout the United States, England, and Labrador. She always created a wonderful home for her family wherever they were stationed. After John’s retirement, Lizette worked as a drafting technician for the Texas Department of Highways and Transportation for 28 years.
Lizette was an active member of ABWA, NARFE, and the Owen’s Extension club holding offices in each. Lizette was an active community member, supporting the Early School system through PTO, bake sales, and, of course, always backing her Early Longhorns. She also enjoyed giving her time to the Good Samaritan Ministries, and to the Wolf Valley Cemetery as a member of the Board of Directors.
Lizette enjoyed her travels near and far including Alaska, Las Vegas, Hawaii, New York and the Christoval Hummer House along with Fort Davis State Park to mention a few. Her suitcase was always packed and she could be ready to go in a minute. Another big part of her life was playing the game of 42. She was always ready to shuffle and bid.
Lizette was preceded in death by her husband of 41 years John F. Vavrina, her parents W.R. and Mary Spence Chambers, her sisters Nancy Elledge and Nell Mercer, her brothers Spence Chambers, Wallace Chambers, Doug Chambers, Stanley “Short” Chambers and Roland Brinkley Chambers.
She leaves behind three daughters: Mary Franklin and husband Jerry, Vivian Denson and husband Russell, Laura Smith and husband Mike, her grandchildren Stephanie Franklin, Emily Denson, James Franklin and wife Jordanna, and Eric Denson and wife Arianna. Lizette also leaves behind a great-grandson Myles Denson with another great-grandchild Franklin expected soon.
Lizette will be missed by all.
Friends are invited to sign the guestbook at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net