Dr. John W. Lavery

John (Jack) Lavery, 86, passed away on Sunday, April 13, 2014.

He was born in Clifton Springs, N.Y. on Feb. 15, 1928, and was the son of the late John Raymond and Mary Irene O'Bryan Lavery. He was preceded in death by his brother, Dr. William E. Lavery. Jack was a devoted, loving, caring husband, father, grandfather and friend. A humble man, accomplished athlete, and musician who loved to travel; Jack was a professional educator who was passionate about lifelong learning and assisting individuals and organizations to reach their maximum potential. In pursuit of this vision he served in many roles in the community college systems of Virginia and New York, including professor, dean of students, director of educational programs and college president. Lavery earned his bachelor's degree from the State University of New York-Geneseo, his masters and doctorate from Michigan State University as well as serving in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict. Surviving are his wife of 57 years, Lois T. Lavery; three sons, Mark J. Lavery and wife, Katy, of Richmond, Va., John J. Lavery and wife, Yolanda, of Potomac, Md., and James T. Lavery of Richmond; six granddaughters, Emily, Shannon, Eliza, Natalie, Ellie, and Hallie; and a step-grandson, Noah. Other survivors include sisters-in-law, Jeanne Cullings and husband, Emerson, Carol LeRoy and husband, Peter, and Peggy Lavery; a brother-in-law, Thomas Thurlow and wife, Judy; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 26, 2014 at 1 p.m. in St. Anne Catholic Parish Hall-Church, Edenton. A reception will follow the service. Miller & Van Essendelft, Funeral and Cremation Providers, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Albemarle Chorale, in care of The College of the Albemarle, 800 N. Oakum St., Edenton, NC 27932. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.