Laverne Cleveland McKinney

Laverne C. McKinney passed peacefully from this life on the early morning of November 6, 2023, at age 75. She was surrounded and supported by those who loved and cared for her during the last days of her life. Although Laverne was born in Memphis, TN, she was raised in Los Angeles, California, until the tender age of 15 when she returned to Memphis. In her early twenties, Laverne married James McKinney, and of this union, she gave birth to two beautiful children whom she loved dearly. Laverne, affectionately known as “Aunt Laverne” to many, had a sweet spirit, a beautiful smile, and an infectious laugh that lit up the room. She was truly loved by all who knew her, and she will never be forgotten and greatly missed.

Laverne is survived by two children, Brenda (Timothy) Nichols and James “Jimmy” McKinney (Vicki Carter); siblings: Bobbie Jean (CA), Charles (CA), and Rozelle (CA); Gayniece and Francine Bennett, Brenda Davis, Ronald (LaSalette) Cleveland, Carliss (Vernell) Cleveland, Michael (Cleatrice) Cleveland; a nephew, Michael Mitchell; a niece, Nakita Neal with honorable mention to Kimberly Greer and best friends Betty Jean Neal, Gloria Seay, and LaJeana Robinson. She was preceded in death by the following family members: the late Doris Taylor, David Taylor, Leroy Cleveland, Willie and Ruby Cleveland, Willie Carl Cleveland, Toni Yvonne Causley, and Toya Davis. Her precious grandchildren, Anthony Tyrell James, Brenise McKinney, Timothy Nichols, Vernecia McKinney, Andre McKinney, Delander McKinney, James McKinney Jr., Semaj McKinney, and twins Taneisha and Tevion Carter, filled her days with great joy. Last but not least, Laverne was also blessed with a host of other grandchildren and cousins, nieces, and nephews.