Lavinia Dean Durman

Lavinia Dean McCullough Durman was born on December 26, 1956, to Phyllis and Clarence McCullough in Montreal, Canada. Lavinia was the eldest of four children and having grown up in a military family, moved frequently during her childhood. Despite her many moves, she never met a stranger. Lavinia had a knack for connection and could strike up a lively conversation with anyone she encountered.

She graduated from Meadowdale High School in Dayton, Ohio in 1974 and went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Education with a focus in Speech Pathology from Bowling Green State University in 1979. This is also where Lavinia became a member of the Epsilon Omicron Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., a sisterhood she cherished long after graduation. After obtaining her degree, Lavinia channeled her effortless skill for communication into her work as a Speech Therapist for the Dallas Independent School District for nearly 40 years, where she was beloved by many children and fellow educators at numerous schools around the Dallas metroplex.

Aside from her work, Lavinia’s pride and joy was her family. She married Michael Durman in 1988 and had three children – Danielle, Phylisia, and Jamie. Lavinia was the embodiment of fellowship and community. She was heavily involved in Girl Scouts with her children, where she made lifelong friends. She devoted countless hours to planning different events including family reunions, celebrations, alumni reunions, and mentorship events for the youth. Lavinia was selfless and warm. She always went above and beyond for others in any way that she could, ensuring that those who needed it were housed, fed, clothed, and loved. Forever an adventurous and fun-loving spirit, she was always looking for new ways to keep busy, such as starting a garden in her backyard, participating in belly dancing classes, and trying her hand at entrepreneurship with “Mrs. V’s Soul Seasonings”. One of her most adored past-times, however, was spending time with her one and only grandson, Cairo, who affectionately referred to her as “Mimi”.

Lavinia gained her wings at home in Dallas, Texas on June 28, 2025. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, educator, and friend. She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Durman, as well as both parents, Clarence and Phyllis McCullough. She leaves to cherish her memories her three children: Danielle Durman of Dallas, TX, Phylisia Durman of Arlington, TX, and Jamie Durman of Austin, TX; one grandson, Cairo Smith; her three siblings Gary (Kim) McCullough of Playa Vista, CA, Renee (Charles) Folsom of Atlanta, GA, and Cheryl Gerdes of Naperville, IL; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. She is loved tremendously, and her presence will truly be missed.

A visitation for Lavinia will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Grove Hill Funeral Home, 3920 Samuell Blvd, Dallas, TX 75228. A funeral service will occur Thursday, July 10, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Grove Hill Funeral Home.

To watch a recording of the service, please visit: https://vimeo.com/1100323780