Lavern G. Brown, 81, of Petersburg, Virginia, entered eternal rest on August 31, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on December 4, 1943, Lavern lived a life filled with grace, strength, and devotion to her family and community. She was the proud co-owner of L&B Beauty and Barber supply and then later L&B Upholstery Shop. For over 20 years, she and her husband served the residents of Petersburg and the surrounding area with hard work and dedication.

Lavern was known for her vibrant spirit, style, and many passions. She loved traveling, dancing, sewing, shopping, and bowling—and she carried a joyful energy into everything she did. She was a member of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, where she served on the senior and missionary ministry. She also enjoyed club and community involvement; most recently she was apart of the Swinging Seniors Dance Group, TRIAD, and vice president of her local AARP chapter. She participated in many community service activities such as feeding the needy, and dancing at various convalescent homes to put smiles on the senior's faces. She touched the lives of those around her with kindness, laughter, and her unwavering love for her family.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband of 61 years, Bobbie Brown; her loving children, Lanette Givens and Jonathan Givens; her brother, Mitchell Givens; her granddaughter, Dara Vaughan (Andrè T. Vaughan, Jr.); and her great-grandchildren, Khi and Krew Vaughan who were the lights of her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Arnetha Givens and Dan Givens; siblings, Dan Givens, Sarah Willliams, Franklin Givens, Mary Spaulding, and granddaughter, Briana Aguilar.

Lavern's warmth, strength, and love will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew her.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." – Matthew 25:23

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, September 6, 2025, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Wesley K. McLaughlin, eulogist and Rev. Herbert Holly II, officiating.

A wake will be held from 7:30 P.M. until 8:30 P.M., Friday, September 5, 2025, at the funeral establishment.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.