LaVerne Alexander

Mrs. LaVerne Eleanor Alexander, née Manion, a devoted wife, loving mother of six, gifted artist, and longtime community volunteer whose warmth, creativity, and faith left an enduring mark on the many places she called home, died peacefully at her residence in Old Lyme, Connecticut, on November 4, 2025. She was 91.

Born on March 1, 1934, in Braddock, Pennsylvania, LaVerne was the daughter of Eleanor Gale (née Myers) and Edwin Aloysius Manion. She spent her early years in Turtle Creek before moving to Plum Township as a teenager. Raised in a large and close-knit family that included 32 aunts and uncles and 55 first cousins, LaVerne learned early the value of connection and community—lessons she carried with her throughout her life.

After graduating from Plum High School, she pursued her passion for art at the Carnegie Institute. Her professional career began as an advertising artist for Murphy's Catalog Company and Kaufmann's Department Store in Pittsburgh. In an era when commercial artwork depended entirely on the artist's hand and eye, LaVerne's talent stood out. Her artistic gifts remained a defining thread through every chapter of her life.

LaVerne married her beloved husband, John Audley Alexander, with whom she built a rich life filled with family, friendships, faith, and adventure. Their journey together took them across the country—from Pittsburgh to Sudbury, Massachusetts; Oxon Hill, Maryland; Painesville, Ohio; Lake Oswego, Oregon; Wyckoff, New Jersey; and finally Old Lyme, Connecticut. She twice drove across the United States - first from Ohio to Oregon and then from Oregon to New Jersey—embracing each new beginning with enthusiasm.

Wherever she lived, LaVerne found meaningful ways to serve others. She gave generously of her time and talents to organizations such as the Western Reserve Junior Service League, Welcome Wagon, Newcomers Club, Lyme Art Association, and most notably the Old Lyme Women's Exchange. There she volunteered for over 30 years and designed the logo that still welcomes visitors to the Lyme Tree Gift Shop. She also attended Women's Exchange conferences nationwide.

Her creativity extended into countless community projects. While living in Painesville during the nation's Bicentennial celebration in 1976, she created "Patrick the Patriotic Puppet" and performed educational puppet shows about the American flag for local elementary schools. She later participated in the "Red Stocking Revue," designing its promotional brochure - another example of how she used her artistic gifts to enrich those around her.

A passionate traveler throughout her life, LaVerne explored much of the world with her family. She cherished multiple trips to Japan; a Rhine River cruise; journeys through nine European countries; visits to 46 U.S. states; and travels across Canada. Among all these adventures, her favorite memories were made in North Carolina's Outer Banks—painting seascapes and lighthouses, completing jigsaw puzzles with loved ones, and savoring time with family.

During their years in Painesville, LaVerne became affectionately known as "the blue streak," a nickname inspired by the blue station wagon she drove while shuttling her children to countless activities—a symbol of her boundless energy and devotion.

Faith was at the heart of LaVerne's life. A devoted Christian woman who lived by example rather than proclamation, she found strength and fellowship in her weekly Bible study group. Her storytelling—vivid and detailed—could transport listeners into another time or place with ease.

LaVerne had an extraordinary gift for making each person in her large family feel uniquely loved. Her legacy lives on through her children: Pamela Jayne; David Alexander (Carolyn); Daniel Alexander; Tina Albrecht (Wolfgang); and Bonnie Rizzuti (Ed). She was predeceased by her husband John Audley Alexander and their son John Jr., whose memories remain deeply cherished.

She is also remembered by her grandchildren: Jena, Ashleigh, John, Katherine, Lauren, Eric, Wolfgang, Kyle, Julia, Grace, and Eddie; great-grandchildren: Jordan, Bryce, Logan, Elliot, and Wolfgang; nieces and nephews: Sharon, Edwin Michael, Maureen, LaVerne, Timmy, Drew, and Susan; as well as dear friends across the country—especially Judy, Barbara, and Mona.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Saybrook Point Inn in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. A light lunch will follow the service. Those planning to attend are kindly asked to contact her daughter Tina at 201-264-7309. In spring 2026 LaVerne's ashes will be interred at Allegheny National Veterans Cemetery in Pittsburgh beside her beloved John.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Old Lyme Women's Exchange in recognition of LaVerne's many years of devoted service.the address is: 86 Halls Road Old Lyme, CT 06371

LaVerne finished every conversation with three simple words: "love ya, love ya, love ya." Those words now echo in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her—a lasting reminder of a life lived with grace and love.