Lavern Boswell Obituary

Lavern Pettis Boswell, age 85, a beloved member of the Vernon community, passed away on June 6, 2025, peacefully, surrounded by family. She was born September 20, 1939, in Vernon, Florida to the late King Howard Pettis and Ruby Quattlebaum Pettis. In addition to her parents, Lavern was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, James William Boswell, and one siter, Rosa Mae Shumaker.
Ms. Boswell is survived by three children, Huey Boswell of Vernon, FL, Cheryl Brock and husband Stacey of Vernon, FL, and April Undieme and husband Dan of Panama City, FL; seven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; six siblings, Darlene Brock of Goose Creek, SC, Christine Morrell and husband Clifton of Vernon, FL, Minerva Harris and husband Waylon of Eufaula, AL, Wanda Bush and husband Rex of Chipley, FL, Elaine Montpelier of Erwin, TN and Wayne Pettis and wife Laura of Knoxville, TN; numerous nieces and nephews.
Lavern dedicated more than 20 years of service as City Clerk to the City of Vernon, where she was known for her dedication, integrity, and warm smile. Outside of her professional life, she was a woman of many passions. She was an avid quilter and cross-stitcher, she took great joy tending to her flower beds, especially her daylilies. Lavern also loved spending time fishing alongside her late husband. But perhaps most of all, she valued the time spent with her sisters and family, creating countless memories filled with laughter and love.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Emerald Coast Hospice, Stethoscope Staffing workers Carol and Lisa, and Vernon Discount Drugs for their exceptional care, kindness, and support during this time.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Monday, June 9, 2025, in the Peel Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in the Vernon City Cemetery with Peel Funeral Home and Bonifay Crematory in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 9 to 10 AM at Peel Funeral Home.