Lavetta (Barnhill) Garvin

Lavetta made it to her heavenly home on April 11. She was known for a strong sense of responsibility and deep love for family and friends. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend. She departed this world surrounded by the love and warmth of her family.  She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience and unwavering devotion to those she held dear.

Born to L.G. and Wanda Barnhill in Baird, Texas.  Lavetta’s journey began on September 13, 1930. She was raised in a nurturing home with parents, whose values of kindness and community she carried throughout her life. 

Lavetta was predeceased by her beloved parents, her first husband, Billy Jim Shelton, her second husband James Garvin, her sister Patricia (Trish) Dyer and a nephew Devin Welch.

She graduated from Baird High School where she was crowned the most beautiful girl her senior year. After the untimely passing of Bill, she exhibited incredible strength and determination, enrolling at Hendrick Nursing School while raising her five children.  Her career as a nurse at Hendrick Hospital was marked by compassion and dedication and she later extended her nurturing nature to the students and staff at Albany ISD, working in the cafeteria.  A devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Albany, Texas. Upon moving to Haltom City she became a member of the First Methodist Church of Hurst where she enjoyed making new friends and worshiping with some of her family.  At the time of her passing she was on her third reading of the Bible.  Lavetta’s faith was the cornerstone of her live.  She found solace and strength in her community, offering her time and talents to the church and its members.  Lavetta’s home was a sanctuary of warmth and hospitality, a place where everyone was welcome.  Her culinary skills were unparalleled, and her baked goods were the delight of her neighborhood.  Her love for flowers was evident in her lovingly tended yard, which flourished under her care and reflected the beauty of her spirit.

She is survived by her loving children: Bobby Lynn Shelton and Jenna, Kay Hall and Randal, Larry Shelton and Cinda, Wesley Shelton and Sherri and Beverly Moore and Don, step children Terry Garvin and Tillie Romanick.  Her legacy continues through her 17 adoring grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.  Lavetta also leaves behind her devoted siblings, Robert Barnhill and Marjorie, and Jerry Welch and Ronnie, who stood by her side throughout her life’s journey.  Lavetta’s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter and resilience.  Her unwavering dedication to her family and community will forever be remembered and cherished. Her legacy will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who were touched by her kindness, her love and her unwavering spirit. She will be deeply missed, yet lovingly remembered.   

Graveside services will be Saturday, April 25, 2026. at 1:00 PM at Ross Cemetery in Baird, with James Martin officiating.

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