She was born in Leesville, South Carolina, on December 26, 1919 to Henry and Victoria Risinger and would have been 100 years old next month, but God had other plans and called her home to be with him. Leona was married to Elzie Lin Chavis for over 57 years and had a passion for gardening, canning and sewing. However, her greatest joy and passion was enjoying her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Leona had a great ministry serving others in the Pentecostal faith, while her family will forever hold onto the memories of her and the strong values she instilled in them.
Survivors include son, Melvin Chavis (Frances); daughters, Joyce Davis (Wayne), Rebecca Jones (Don), Donna Jones (John) and daughter-in-law, Joyce Chavis. Leona was preceded in death by her husband, Elzie; oldest son, Clyde Chavis and granddaughters, Amanda Wall and Christy Hutto.
A private graveside service will be conducted for family at Southland Memorial Gardens, with arrangements made by Caughman-Harman Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Crossroads World Outreach in remembrance of Leona.
