Beverly Ruth Oliver Coburn, born August 2, 1939, in Roseland, Louisiana, to James Oliver and Gladys Seibert Oliver, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. Beverly was a cherished daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. A story often shared by her family is that when she was brought home from the hospital, she was so small that she fit into a shoebox. Despite her small beginnings, she had a large heart and enjoyed supporting those in the family and community.
Beverly was active in school and 4H, where she developed lifelong skills and passions. Known for her intricate crochet and sewing work, she lovingly created detailed pieces for her family and friends. Another of her great loves was baking, which began in her school days when she won first place for her homemade rolls. This love carried throughout her life as she often prepared meals and desserts for her family. She also participated in an annual baking competition at the Tangipahoa Parish Library System, where her desserts frequently earned recognition.
On May 1, 1964, Beverly married the love of her life, Allen Jay Coburn. Together, they shared 50 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 2015. The couple raised two children, Edward Allen and Ivy Maureen, and Beverly devoted herself to her family and home. She supported Allen's carpentry business while also creating a warm and loving environment for their children.
When her children were older, she became a substitute teacher and teacher’s aide at Oak Forest Academy. She then began a long and rewarding career with the Tangipahoa Parish Library System on September 13, 1993. For many years, she worked as a library clerk, particularly enjoying planning and delivering children’s story time at the Amite branch. In 2008, Beverly transitioned to the technical services department, where she oversaw the setup and removal of books and resources. She would often say that all books “began and ended” with her team in technical services. She retired from the library on December 16, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service.
In retirement, Beverly found joy in her garden, canning her produce, reading, and spending time with her family. She also took great pride in following the sports and activities of her grandsons. A lifelong sports fan, she especially enjoyed watching LSU games and the Little League World Series. Her beloved dog, Coco, was a faithful companion during these years.
Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, Allen Jay Coburn; her parents, James and Gladys Oliver; her brothers, Ivy and Charles Oliver; and her sisters, Helen Oliver Sharpe and Gladys Oliver Bernard. She is survived by her son, Edward Coburn, and his wife Kelly of Benbrook, TX, and their sons, Allen and Eric; her daughter, Ivy Coburn, and her wife Shelly of Mableton, GA, and grandson Dr. Scott “Bucky” Alford. She is also survived by her brother, Jimmy Oliver, and his wife Janie of Kansas; her sister, Edna Oliver Leonard, and her husband Sam of Walker; her brother-in-law, Everette Bernard of Hammond; and her sister-in-law, JoAnn Oliver of Roseland.
Services will be held at McKneely Funeral Home in Amite on Saturday, October 26, 2024. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by services at 3:00 p.m. Graveside services will follow at Arcola Roseland Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Allen and Beverly Coburn Endowed Scholarship. Check/money orders may be made out to and mailed to the Southeastern Foundation at SLU 10293, Hammond, LA 70402; credit card donations may be made online at www.southeastern.edu/memorial; or you may call (985) 549-2239. While flowers are beautiful, most family members will be flying in for services and would prefer continuing “Miss Bev’s” love of reading and education through the family scholarship.
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