Wednesday, December 6, 2023 9:58 am

LaVerne Gibson Walker, age 82 of Forest City died Saturday, November 18, 2023.

She was born in Rutherford County December 16, 1940, and was a daughter of the late James William Gibson and Beeda Beheler Gibson. LaVerne was a graduate of Tri-High School and attended Gardner-Webb College.

In 1963, she married Tom Walker and began life as an Air Force wife, living throughout the United States and Europe.

She was active in the First United Methodist Church of Forest City. She was a member of the Pilot Club of Rutherford County, ECA, and a mentor for Rutherford County Schools at Harris Elementary. In 2009, she and Tom were named Citizens of the Year for their community involvement.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Dennis Gibson, and a grandson, Greg Vanecek.

Survivors include her husband of 60 years, Lt. Col. Thomas N. Walker, her son, James Gregory Walker and wife Rosie of Seguin, TX, her daughter, Wendy Walker Vanecek and husband Jim of Forest City, her brothers, Darrell Gibson of Rutherfordton, Dwayne Gibson of Henrietta, and four grandchildren.

The Memorial Service was held December 1 at First United Methodist Church of Forest City, officiated by Rev. Curtis Goforth and Rev. Gene Feagin.

The family respectfully request that memorials be made to First United Methodist Church, 341 E. Main St., Forest City, NC 28043.

An online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com.

Padgett~King Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.