Arvilla Anabel Southerland

Arvilla Anabel Anderson Southerland, a beloved educator and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully at the age of 103 on January 20, 2025, at Fleet Landing Skilled Nursing in Jacksonville, Florida where she had resided since August 2020. She was born in Stanley, Wisconsin to Kathryn and Axel Anderson on December 27, 1921. She grew up attending local schools in Stanley with her younger brother Dale, who preceded her in death in 1984.

While obtaining her degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, she began her career teaching in 1942. In 1946, Arvilla moved away from Wisconsin and made her way south to Jacksonville where she would remain and dedicate her life to teaching in Duval County Public Schools. She spent 15 years inspiring students at Landon Junior-Senior High School as an English teacher, then as Dean of Girls at Jefferson Davis Junior High School for 8 years until 1969 when she moved to the personnel department and helped hire teachers until her retirement in 1979. Arvilla returned a few years later to the school board until a second retirement in 1993.

In 1957, Arvilla was married to Charles Clay Southerland, who preceded her in death in 1997. They enjoyed many travels together over the years and journeyed through life with love for friends and family. Arvilla was a long-time parishioner of Christ the King Catholic Church on Arlington Road where she made special friendships over the years until her health kept her from attending mass.

Known for her sharp mind and gentle spirit, Arvilla had a passion for dachshunds, grammar, crossword puzzles, and orchids. She was often found solving crossword puzzles, enjoying a book, or sharing her love of language with those around her.

Arvilla's dedication to education was evident in the countless lives she touched and enriched as a teacher. Beyond her professional achievements, Arvilla was a beacon of kindness and wisdom in her community. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel valued and heard, and her warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As per Arvilla’s wishes and desire to always provide further education, her body was donated to the State of Florida Anatomical Board. Interment of her ashes at Greenlawn Cemetery, 4300 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, Florida 32207 is to be determined and will be announced at a later date.

Arvilla's legacy lives on through the cherished memories held by her family and friends. Survived by many family members: both by blood and those chosen by heart, as well as friends and others who she greatly impacted over the years. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her remarkable life and the love she shared with those around her.