Obituary of LaVerne Spence

Columbia, South Carolina – We are saddened to announce the unexpected passing of LaVerne Spence at the age of 85.  She was born on June 30, 1936, in Porterdale, Georgia, as the only child to the late Mae and Chester Robinson.

LaVerne married Harville “Harv” Spence on July 2, 1954, and traveled the world as an Air Force wife with their two children, Joy and Ken. In addition to being a wife and mother, LaVerne was passionate about serving others along side her Tripp’s Fine Cleaners family for 35 years.

She was a devoted Christian wife and mother, and she immensely enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who called her “Nana”.   LaVerne’s loving family includes her husband, Harv; her daughter, Joy Hinson (Buddy); their children: Meghan Sutherland (Brandon) and Hannah Pruitt; her son, Ken Spence (Margaret), and their children: Morgan Gooler (Mike), Guy Spence* (Callie Ayers), Cindy Spence, Kaitlyn Spence, and Chad Spence. (*We are all comforted that Guy and his sweet Nana are together in heaven.) 

LaVerne cherished her four great-grandchildren: Cara and Colton Gooler, and Bennett and Collins Sutherland.

She enjoyed spending her evenings with her husband of 67 years, creating wonderful memories with those she loved at family gatherings, and being a member of her Sunday school class at White Rock Baptist Church.  LaVerne was not shy to tell you about her love of the Atlanta Braves and Gamecock athletics.  She never missed an opportunity to support her grandchildren or great grandchildren where she was always there to capture the moment and cheer each of them on.  LaVerne was outgoing and unapologetically herself; a devoted friend, and loved the Lord and her family faithfully. 

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 pm on Saturday, August 28, 2021, at White Rock Baptist Church.  In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to White Rock Baptist Church, or your Church/charity in LaVerne’s memory.