LaVerne was born on Oct. 19, 1923 in Middletown, CT to Thomas and Alice Kane Shea. Upon graduating from Middletown High School, LaVerne attended St. Joseph College in Hartford, CT.
She then enrolled in Fordham University graduate degree program where she met John Riley. LaVerne and Jack went on to marry and raised six sons together.
LaVerne continued to pursue her lifelong love of learning. As an accomplished pianist, grammarian and linguist, LaVerne donated her time to substitute teaching at St. Joseph School in Brookfield, CT. She later worked for many years as a tutor at Whisconier Middle School. LaVerne cherished those moments when former students approached her and asked, “Do you remember me?” LaVerne was especially supportive of those children with special needs.
LaVerne loved animals and delighted in watching the many birds who visited her birdfeeders. Her little dogs Spunky and “D.O.G” never failed to make her laugh. LaVerne literally would not hurt a fly.
Later in life, LaVerne became a doting grandmother. She delighted in giving her grandchildren treats and trips with her friends and family.
She explored independently owned shops, diners and drive-thrus in search of “goodies”. LaVerne will be remembered as a warm, generous and genuine friend.
LaVerne’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Tyler, New Milford VNA Hospice and the PCAs who helped LaVerne maintain her dignity and grace.
Besides her husband and parents, LaVerne was predeceased by her siblings: Ronald Shea and Irene Shea.
Survivors include her six sons: John and his wife, Samia, of Bethel, CT; Tom and his wife, Susan, of Waterford, CT; Bruce of Brookfield; Cary and his wife, Tereasa of Brookfield; Mark and his wife Tatiana of Amesbury, MA; and Keith and Filomena Chable of Brookfield.
Her grandchildren and their spouses: Laura and Josh Hilbert; David and Stacy Riley; Jeffrey Riley; Kevin Riley; Christopher Riley and his wife Jessica Burke; John Conor Riley; and Leif Riley.
Her great-grandchildren: Lila and Marlow; Luke and Miles; and Layla. Many nieces and nephews also survive.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Monday, March 5, 2018 at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church, Brookfield with the Rev. Shawn W. Cutler, Pastor, officiating. Interment will follow in Center Cemetery, New Milford, CT.
Friends will be received from 2pm-4pm on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at the Green Funeral Home, 57 Main St., Danbury, CT.
Contributions in LaVerne’s memory may be made to the Abbey of Regina Laudis, 273 Flanders Rd., Bethlehem, CT 06751.
