La Vern Lankford

La Vern Olney Lankford, 79, lived a long and full life before losing her battle with cancer on July 17, 2013, in Dallas, Texas. She was born in San Diego, CA to Rear Adm. and Mrs. Alfred C Olney, Jr. La Vern is predeceased by her loving husband of 54 years, Robert J. Lankford. She is survived by her sister Bobbi and Roy Moore and their children; her children CDR (Ret.) Bruce and Lisa Lankford, SSG Craig Lankford, the Rev. Dr. David and Leigh Green, and LtCol Stuart Lankford; and her grandchildren, Tyler, Amber, Sarah, Joshua, Benjamin, Daniel, Matthew, and Jacob. La Vern graduated from Duke University in 1955 where she was a Delta Delta Delta. Following graduation, she became a china buyer for Nieman-Marcus, where she enjoyed her retail career until she and Bob started their family. In addition to being a devoted mother of four, she volunteered from one end of Dallas to another. She loved her volunteer work with the Dallas Historical Society, Old City Park, Cub Scouts, Webelos, Boy Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, PTA, several school cafeterias, the Highland Park High School Band, various local schools (teaching Spanish), Highland Park Presbyterian Church Day School, Delta Delta Delta, the Forum, and many other venues. She was volunteering to the end of her life, always trying to help others. La Vern loved being with her family, and also had many wonderful friends whom she cherished. She enjoyed big band music, especially when dancing with her favorite partner, Bob. She also loved swimming at the YMCA, her sewing friends, her bridge friends, camping with family and friends, the opera, and museums. She was fiercely patriotic, loved all American holidays, and the Navy. She was always up for a parade. A memorial service will be held at Sparkman Hillcrest at 10am on Saturday, July 20, at the Chapel. There will be a reception immediately following in the Parlor. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Dallas Heritage Village at the Old City Park.