Laverne F. Chastain

DESOTO - Laverne F. Chastain, a beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at the age of 96 on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, in De Soto. Born on July 16, 1929, in Prairie Du Rocher to Daniel and Cora (Barr) Brewer, Laverne dedicated her life to her family and community, leaving behind a legacy of love and creativity. She married J.T. Chastain on August 29, 1967 in Mt. Vernon and he preceded her in death on October 26, 1991.

Laverne worked for 28 years as a meat wrapper for Boren’s IGA, a profession that shaped her work ethic and commitment to quality. She was known for her unwavering spirit and tremendous heart. She enjoyed piecing together jigsaw puzzles, crafting homemade items that brought warmth and joy to those around her, and hosting family gatherings that created cherished memories. Her enthusiasm for life was evident as she spent her time watching Pastor Joel Osteen on television, finding inspiration in his messages.

Laverne is survived by her son, Eddie Betts of Guthrie, OK and daughter, Lauren Rader of Makanda. Also surviving are her son-in-law, Bobby Smith of Carbondale; and her cherished grandchildren: Bobby (Kylie) Smith, Salina (Brian) Holloway, Robin (Brent) Pritchett, Sam (Beth) Betts, and Cecilia Rader. Laverne's legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Mackenzie Pritchett, Jaxon Smith, Jon Holloway, Matthew Pritchett, Carl Betts, Lillie Betts (Nick Dean), and Austin Wheaton; great-great grandchildren, David Bricker Dean and Rhett Wheaton; as well as her nephew John Gray and niece Linda Chastain.

A graveside service will take place at 10:00am on Monday, September 15, 2025 at Oakland Cemetery (1100 N. Oakland Ave; Carbondale) with Pastor Jerry Cochran officiating, where friends and family will gather to honor and celebrate Laverne's life. Laverne will be remembered fondly for her compassion, creativity, and the love she shared with all who knew her. She will be greatly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of her family and friends.

Laverne was preceded in death by her husband, J.T. Chastain; parents, Daniel and Cora Brewer; daughter, Teresa Smith; sisters, Dorothy Gray, Lucille Chastain, and Mary Lou Brewer; and brothers, Lester and Floyd Brewer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or The National WWII Museum and will be accepted at the funeral home and cemetery.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Laverne, visit www.mereditfh.com.