Lavada Jewel Tennison's Obituary
Lavada Jewel Tennison, born on April 20, 1935, in Paris, Arkansas, bid farewell to this world on April 25, 2024 in Bentonville, Arkansas. She was the beloved daughter of Thomas and Nellie (Howe) Stewart and grew up in the warm embrace of Paris, surrounded by its scenic beauty and tight-knit community.
Throughout her life, Lavada exuded a vibrant spirit and cherished the simple joys that brought light to her days. A skilled seamstress and adept at crocheting, she poured her heart into crafting beautiful pieces and found solace in the rhythmic motions of her needlework. Family gatherings were among her most cherished moments, where laughter and love filled the air, weaving unforgettable memories with those she held dear.
It was on the dance floor in Tulsa that Lavada's path intertwined with Donnie's. Their love story blossomed, marked by adventures on the open road in their motorhome, with Lavada confidently taking the wheel as they traversed landscapes far and wide. Accompanied by their beloved poodle, Molly, who was not just a pet but a cherished member of the family, they embarked on countless journeys, creating a tapestry of cherished experiences together.
Settling in and out of Tulsa, Lavada raised her family in Berryhill, Oklahoma, where Lavada's nurturing spirit shone brightly. A devoted mother, she poured her creativity into sewing clothes for her children, leaving a legacy of love woven into every stitch. Together with Donnie, they owned and operated the Shamrock Motel in Berryville, Arkansas, embodying the essence of hard work and dedication.
Lavada's passion for sewing extended beyond her immediate family, leaving an indelible mark on her children and grandchildren. She embraced life with a playful spirit, delighting in entertaining her grandchildren with her creative antics. Her love for yard sales knew no bounds, transforming each outing into an all-day adventure filled with treasures waiting to be discovered.
An avid gardener, Lavada found joy in working outdoors, her hands nurturing life from the earth. Her love for music echoed through the halls of the church, where she found solace in singing alongside Donnie's instrumental melodies during Sunday night specials and Bluegrass Festivals.
A pillar of her community, Lavada found joy in fellowship, whether it was dancing at church "boot scootins" or sharing potluck dinners with friends. Her early career as a barber in Tulsa was a testament to her determination and willingness to embrace new challenges.
Lavada leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories, survived by her children, Ronnie Knight and wife, Lisa, and Deborah Stossel; stepchildren, Kevin Tennison and his wife, Sandy, and Cindy; grandchildren, Amber, Jesse, Letha, James, Tim, Jason, and Tilenna; two step-grandchildren, Josh Tennison and Cassandra Watkins; 26 great grandchildren; her sisters, Margaret and Joyce; brothers, Robert and Thomas; as well as numerous great-great grandchildren, extended family and friends.
Lavada was preceded in death by her husband, Don; her daughter, Donna Robbins; granddaughter, Judith Ann; brothers, Butch, Paul, Phillip, Norman, Louie, and Danny Ray; and her sister, Lucille.
In the hearts of those who knew her, Lavada's light will continue to shine bright, a beacon of love and warmth that will forever illuminate the memories she leaves behind.
A funeral ceremony honoring Lavada's life will be held 1 PM, Friday, May 3, 2024 in the Rivercrest Chapel of Bixby-South Tulsa Funeral Service. Josh Tennison will be officiating. Viewing will commence at 10 AM. James Chaney, Jason Chaney, Tim Chaney, Jason Hill, Griggs Hill, and Kevin Tennison will serve as pallbearers. Interment will follow in the Haskell Cemetery.
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