LaVanna Lee Stevens “Bonnie”, age 94, passed away on November 26, 2020 at the Citadel Assisted Living Facility in Mesa AZ, where she had lived for the past 5 ½ years. She was born on September 15, 1926, in Covington KY, to Willard and Cora Martin. The family moved to Phoenix AZ in 1940 for her father’s work.
LaVanna was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her WWII pilot husband, Roy Lee Stevens in 1993 and her only child LeRoy Darrell Stevens in 2009. She is survived by many nieces and nephews, and many great and great-great nieces and nephews.
In her younger years, LaVanna worked as a model and an extra in Hollywood movies, even working on “Bus Stop” with Marilyn Monroe. She was also an Arizona Powder Puff race car driver in the 1950’s, which landed her on the “Two for the Money” television show in 1954. LaVanna always enjoyed a good smoke, the cha-ching of a slot machine and her beloved dogs. She lived her life on her own terms and was truly one-of-a-kind.
Due to corona virus concerns, there will be no visitation or funeral service. LaVanna will be laid to rest at East Resthaven Park in Phoenix AZ. The family wishes to thank the caring staff at Aegis Hospice and the Citadel Assisted Living Facility.
