Doris Laverne Townsley

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Doris Laverne Townsley, a beloved mother, friend, and community member, who left us on February 10, 2025, at the age of 92. Laverne was known for her big heart, warm spirit, and unwavering love for her family, making a lasting impact on those who had the joy of knowing her.

Laverne was born on May 22, 1932, and graduated from Merryville High School in 1950. She started her professional career at Beauregard Abstract Company and later worked for the Beauregard Parish Clerk of Court office and Westvaco, both of which she retired from. She also worked at Alexandria Production Credit and Chesapeake Oil, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and hard work.

She married the love of her life, George Wesley Townsley, on October 25, 1952, and together they created a beautiful family. Laverne was a member of First Baptist Church of Longville.

Laverne is survived by her children, Damon Townsley and Debby of Praireville, LA, Karen Townsley and Glen Dyer, George Kevin Townsley and Jody of DeRidder, LA, Barry Townsley and Kalan of Junction, LA; bonus children, Margo Townsley Ardoin and Joe of DeRidder, LA, Clifford Townsley and Debbie of DeRidder, LA, Buddy Townsley of Galliano, LA; daughters-in-love, Jan Summers Koch of Gonzales, LA, Wendy Fahringer Martin of DeRidder, LA; brother, Bruce Bennett and Melanie of Pitkin, LA; grandchildren, Brandon, Jena, Jaclyn, Dillon, Crystal, Andrea, Stephanie, Samantha, George II, Geoffrey, Corey, Celeste, Zachary, Ryan; twenty-seven great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild. 

She is preceded in death by her husband, George Wesley Townsley; granddaughter, Regina; granddaughter-in-law, Jennifer; brothers, Carl Bennett, Jr., Herman Bennett, and Max Bennett.

 Family was everything to Laverne; she was known for cooking Sunday dinners, pulling off major BBQs, and having a talent for arriving late but somehow always being on time-making sure to tease that she was "making Daddy wait. 

 Laverne had a zest for life that was truly infectious. She loved LSU sports, reading, traveling, and was always first in line at any Louisiana festival. Her passion for collecting Avon bottles even got her featured on KPLC-proof of her unique interests. She had an undeniable talent for finding treasures at garage sales, too.

To celebrate Laverne's life, public viewings will take place at Myers Colonial Funeral Home on Thursday, February 13, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and on continue on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 10:00 AM. Her grandson, Brother Corey Townsley will officiate the service. Pallbearers will be Jeremy Barry, Jonathan Harper, Dillon Townsley, Toby Dyer, Renn Savoie, Victor Townsley. Honorary pallbearers will be Byron Bennett, Tony Bennett, Duane Bennett, Jerry Townsley, Buddy Townsley, and Cliff Townsley. She will be laid to rest at Whitaker Cemetery in DeRidder, LA.

Doris Laverne Townsley will be missed dearly, but her spirit will live on through the countless memories shared by her family and friends. The love she gave and the joy she brought to others will forever echo in their hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Laverne Townsley to First Baptist Church of Longville, LA Building Fund. The building was destroyed during Hurricane Laura. Donations can also be made to God’s Food Box in DeRidder or The Pregnancy Care Center of DeRidder, LA.