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BORN
1951
DIED
2024
Deveney Totten Obituary
01/29/1951 - 04/20/2024
When she wasn't deep into a book, strolling on the beach or cheering on her beloved Oakland A's, Deveney was a talented attorney, dedicated wife and loving mother and grandmother.
Deveney Ruth Bixler was born to Ray and Virginia Bixler in Kentucky. While her parents loved her, they were unable to appropriately care for her. Her stability in her early years came from her adored grandpa, Russ Harper. At 13, she found her forever foster home with Jean and Jim Manessier and their daughter, Julie, in Riverside, Calif.
She graduated from Central High in Riverside and UC Riverside before obtaining her law degree at Southwestern. In law school, she met a recently graduated engineer, Larry Totten. Their love story carried on for five decades. The depth of their love was evident to anybody who saw them, especially in the later years when Larry's care for Deveney was patient and dignified.
Deveney provided a loving, caring and stable home for her three children. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate big – from amazing birthday parties, to over-the-top Halloween décor to Christmas presents stacked high under the tree. She encouraged her children to be independent by always providing a reliably soft landing when they needed to fall.
Deveney was a skilled negotiator, working for insurance companies for her entire career – all while raising three children. Somehow, she juggled winning at settlement conferences with never missing a lacrosse game or the family's annual trip to Disneyland.
Deveney is survived by her husband, Larry; her children, Vanessa Ryan (Glen), Jenny, and Jeff (Susie); and her grandsons, Connor and William Ryan and a new addition expected this summer. She is also survived by her sister, Julie and her "half-sibs," Danae, Minda, Robert and Andrea. Her family is forever grateful for her caregiver, Heidi and the wonderful staff at the Bruns House who provided comfort in her final days.
A celebration of her life will be held on May 18, at 3 p.m., at the Lafayette Park Hotel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a gift to Hospice of the East Bay (Bruns House) or the Alzheimer's Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Deveney Totten
Nancy Long Cole
December 4, 2024
Deveney and I were roommates at USD Law School before she married Larry and transferred to Southwestern. Even though I never saw her again she has always lived in my heart. Vaya con Dios, Deveney. I never met a truer, kinder, wiser soul. Nancy Long Cole
Bonnie Wells
May 18, 2024
Deveney was a dear friend for many many years. We shared our sons with one another on a daily basis, taking turns pu king them up from their various activities. We met when they were toddlers Seven Hills and those two boys, Jeff and Paul, became fast friends. We enjoyed so many fun times together - Disneyland, Lacrosse, Basketball camps and games, art projects - great times at all the birthdays and school field trips. Deveney and her family became a second family to us. I delighted in our girl lunches and double date dinners...she will always remain in my heart a dear dear friend. Our hearts goes out to all of her family, especially to Larry, and her children Vanessa, Jenny and Jeff. Deveney, until we meet again. Love, The Wells family
Judith Garvey
April 26, 2024
Condolences to Greg and family. A remarkable woman.
Tom Judge
April 26, 2024
Deveney hands down was the smartest, highest performing skilled person in her job! Doing an outstanding job was the only way to do it for Deveney. She was always so excited to tell me about a kids success or upcoming trip to San Diego. She was a true mother who loved her family and was so proud of each of them including Larry. I was so bummed out the day she retired! She was one of a kind and I´m so lucky I was able to share time with her. I used to call her my favorite employee ever, and still do!
Tom Judge
Marianne Ponce
April 25, 2024
Rest in Paradise Deveney. Give all of our family that you are now with, big hugs from Dan and I. Prayers to Larry and the kids, and Julie for this difficult time. Love Dan & Marianne (Fowler) Ponce
Paul Brich
April 25, 2024
Thank you for giving me one of my best friends. I know you had your hands full with her and she has turned out awesome.
Debbie Taylor
April 25, 2024
I was fortunate to call Deveney my friend for 20 years. We enjoyed our lunches in the wine country with friends, going to A´s games and taking long walks around the reservoir.
She was the kindest, classiest most generous person to all that came into her life.
I will miss her terribly.
Much love to her family
Jones family
April 25, 2024
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
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