Lavinia Atchley

Harriett Lavinia Atchley, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away peacefully at her home in Holly Lake Ranch, Texas, on November 6, 2024, just one day after celebrating her 93rd birthday.

Born in Yantis, Texas, on November 5, 1931, to James Lonnie Cade and Iva (Gilbreath) Cade, Lavinia was the daughter of a hardworking farm family. She married the love of her life, Jimmy Lynn Atchley, on December 26, 1953, in Commerce, Texas. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and a deep commitment to each other. They lived in Wood County since March 1987, where they made a lasting impact on their community.

Lavinia's professional career was marked by a deep passion for education. She spent 21 years as a teacher in the Arlington Independent School District, and earlier in New Boston High School, influencing countless students' lives. As a member of several professional organizations, including the Texas Professional Educators Association, the Texas State Teachers Association, and the Business and Professional Women's Association, Lavinia was a tireless advocate for education and the development of young minds.

She was also a dedicated member of Holly Brook Baptist Church and an active participant in local community life. Lavinia's leadership extended to her role as a past president of the Hawkins Study Club, and her involvement in the Arlington Public School Administration further reflected her lifelong commitment to service.

Known for her tireless work ethic, Lavinia found great joy in managing the family farm in Yantis, organizing family events, and ensuring that every gathering was a special occasion. With her meticulous attention to detail, she became the “ringleader” of family activities, keeping a large and growing family closely knit. Her grandchildren affectionately called her "Oma.”

Lavinia and her husband shared a passion for Baylor University sports and were also proud season ticket holders to performances at the Texas State Fair Music Hall. Together, they enjoyed countless moments of joy and excitement, with Lavinia always cheering her team on, and learning from musical performances with enthusiasm.

Above all, Lavinia was a devoted wife and mother, a woman whose love for her family knew no bounds. She worked tirelessly to ensure the happiness and well-being of those around her, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Lavina is preceded in death by her parents, James Lonnie Cade and Iva Gilbreath Cade; sister, Lois Cade Garrison; and brother, Kenneth Cade.

Lavinia is survived by her loving husband of nearly 71 years, Jimmy Lynn Atchley of Holly Lake Ranch; two children, Brant Atchley and wife Patricia of Fort Worth, and Stacy Atchley and wife Janelle of Waco; three grandchildren, Lauren Elizabeth Atchley, Dallas Brooke Atchley, and Audra Anne Atchley; two sisters, Elthie Cade Meads and Maurine Cade Shaw; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Funeral service for Lavina Atchley will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, November 16, 2024 at Holly Brook Baptist Church with Pastor David Laflore and Dr. Charles Wade, former paster of First Baptist Church of Arlington officiating. She will be laid to rest following the service at Rock Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday evening, November 15th, at Lowe-Gardner Funerals & Cremations from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM.

Serving as pallbearers are Cade Garrison, James Cade, Byron Meads, Timothy Meads, Anthony Meads, Robert Shaw, Mike Garrett, and David Hitt II.

Flowers are appreciated, but if desired, a donation in lieu of flowers may be made to a church of your choice or to Rock Hill Cemetery (PO Box 1365, Quitman, TX 75783)