Milva Ann Lawrence

Milva Ann Lawrence

June 15, 1941 – July 24, 2025

Nacogdoches, Texas

Milva Ann Lawrence, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born in Apple Springs, Texas, to Woodie Emory Kendrick and Hazel Blakeway Kendrick, Milva’s life was a reflection of deep faith, unwavering devotion to family, and a heart full of kindness and strength.

Milva graduated as Salutatorian from Hudson High School in 1959, where she served as Head Cheerleader, Senior Favorite, National Honor Society Vice President, and President of the Future Homemakers of America. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1963, where she was honored as a Who’s Who recipient, a member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society, and Homecoming Duchess for Future Farmers of America. She later completed her Master of Education in 1968.

Milva began her career in education, teaching at both Lufkin and Woodville High Schools for five years. She later dedicated over 20 years as Office Manager and Bookkeeper for the family business and more than a decade as a Billing Clerk at Louisiana Pacific. Her strong work ethic and attention to detail were matched only by her devotion to her family and her church.

Milva is survived by her loving daughters and their families: Jill and Joe Still of Nacogdoches, and their children Preston, Carson, and Joe; Jan and Todd Kelsey of Longview, and their children Parker and Connor; and the father of her children, Don Lawrence of Nacogdoches.

She is also survived by her sister-in-law Helen Kendrick and her great-niece and nephews Kailey Homrighaus Davis, Grant Homrighaus, and Tyler Kendrick; sister-in-law Suzann Kendrick; sister-in-law Karen Foley and her husband Pat Foley, their sons Todd and Ryan Foley (and wife Chris); and great-nieces Mackenzie, Lexie, Hannah, Scarlett, and Maisie Foley and nephew Michael Austin. She is lovingly remembered by cousins Georgia Kendrick and May Ellen Taylor and a host of extended family and friends.

Milva was preceded in death by her parents, Woodie and Hazel Kendrick; her brother Royce Kendrick and his children Randy Kendrick and Gaylyn Homrighaus; and her half-brother Joe Kendrick, sister-in-law Sarah Austin and husband Robert.

A lifelong learner and natural homemaker, Milva found joy in music, baking, stain removal (a family legend!), and cheering on Texas sports teams, especially when it meant connecting with her grandsons over the Mavericks, Rockets, Cowboys, or Texas A&M University games. She was a dedicated member of Stallings Drive Church of Christ, where her faith and service to others were known and cherished.

Milva will be remembered most for being a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, faithful daughter and sister, loyal friend and humble servant of God. Milva’s steadfast faith was the foundation of her life. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion that will carry on through those who loved her most.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

Stallings Drive Church of Christ, 3831 NE Stallings Dr, Nacogdoches, TX 75965

A visitation for Milva will be held Sunday, August 3, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, 5400 North Street, Nacogdoches, TX 75965. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 PM. Interment will be at Sunset Memorial Park, 5127 North St, Nacogdoches, TX.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Directors, Nacogdoches.