Ms. Lavern "Von" McNeal ~ Memorial Tribute

n r e v La “Von” of

In Loving Memory

l c a MNe Bagley

Sunrise September 12, 1960 Sunset t

January 19, 2024

Saturday, February 3, 2024 11:00 am t

Oak Grove Baptist Church 183 Joubert Ave Memphis, TN 38109

Reverend James E. Kendricks- Officiant

Obituary

Von was the child of the late Mr. Robert L. Bagley Sr. and Mrs. Nellie B. Bagley.

She was one of nine children to this union. Von accepted Christ at an Early age at First Baptist Church on First Street in the heart of South Memphis, TN. Von was proceeded in death by her loving parents, and five siblings.

Von married Cleveland McNeal in 1982. To this union four children were born which were the apple of her eyes.

Von leaves to cherish her memories, one daughter: Mrs. Bettina Key (Kendrick Sr.), three sons: Cleandus Bagley (Ersula), Jermaine McNeal and Larr McNeal Sr., one sister: Betty Hammond, two brothers: Lee Grandberry (Sandi) of Phoenix, AZ and Jerry Bagley, sixteen grandchildren along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Processional

Order of Service

Scripture Reading Old & New Testament...................................................................................Antawn Jefferson Prayer.................................................................................................................. Antawn Jefferson

Solo.......................................................................Phyllis Fifer - St. Luke COGIC, Olive Branch, MS Words of Comfort................................................................................................Willie Shields Jr. Expressions......................................................................................................Marion Price - Niece Emma Rice - Neighbor Annette Mathews - Close Friend Musical Selection................................................................................ Oak Grove Baptist Church Acknowledgements & Resolution...................................................................... Ms. Pat Taliaferro Eulogy........................................................................................................Rev. James E. Kendrick Pastor Oak Grove Baptist Church Recessional “What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us.” – Helen Keller

Dear Mama Words cannot express the gratitude and love we have for you, Mom. Unconditional love has gotten us through some rough times.

The support and understanding you showed us is unmatched.

We love you so much and we’ll miss you every day.

To most people you were Von. But to us you will always be our mom!

Now rest peacefully as your work here with us is done.

Forever and always, We love you, Mom. Bettina, Cleandus, Jermaine, Larr

Dear Grandma Your love was unconditional.

Your love was sweet.

Your love was stern.

Your love language was cooking.

Your love was reading.

Your love was your grandchildren.

Your love was laughter.

Your love was smiles. your love was kisses (or as you called it SUGAR).

And most of all your love was felt through all of us.

We love you grandma and our memories shared will live on until infinity.

Love Always Your Grandkids,

Afterglow To Those Whom I Love & Those Who Love Me When I am gone, release me, let me go.

I have so many things to see and do, You mustn’t tie yourself to me with too many tears, But be thankful we had so many good years.

I gave you my love, and you can only guess.

How much you’ve given me in my happiness.

I thank you for the love that you have shown, But now it is time that I travel alone.

So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must, Then let your grief be comforted by trust.

It is only for a while that we must part, So, treasure the memories within your heart.

I won’t be far away for life goes on.

And if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can’t see or touch me, I will be near.

And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear, All my love around you is soft and clear.

And then, when you come this way alone, I’ll greet you with a smile and a ‘Welcome Home’.

“I’ll always love each of you whomever I was too you Sister, Momma, Grandma or even friend!”

Love Always, Von

Notice of a Change of Address Dear Family and Friends: Please be advised that I have moved. I received a call from God informing me that my new home was complete. Jesus Christ has given final approval, and it was only He I needed to see.

On January 19, 2024, my Father delivered me into my new residence. No surprises! It is located on an exclusive estate behind a beautiful pearly gate. Of course, you know the streets are paved with gold and every day is Sunday, just like you have been told. The trees are filled with fruit and grace with God’s beauty to behold.

I’ll continue to have my talks with Jesus and thank Him for his love, and pray that you will join me in this beautiful place above. I have no more pain and heartache, no discontent or strife; just joy unspeakable joy every day in this new life. I dine at the Master’s bountiful table and listen to a heavenly choir; we rejoice and give God’s praises, each and every hour.

So, my family and friends, as I await your arrival here, just know that God does love you, stay strong and do not fear.

P.S. Remember, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

Acknowledgements

We, the family of Lavern “Von” Bagley-McNeal , extend our profound gratitude to the many friends and loved ones who have shown love and kindness during this very difficult time. Your visits, calls, cards, flowers, and other expressions of condolences will always be remembered. Please know that when our loss seemed too great, we looked up and our friends shared so many kind words, both written and spoken. With faces smiling and hearts open, you comforted us and shared our grief. God will continue to bless us -this we know- and keep granting relief. Our gratitude cannot be adequately expressed with words, but they are the best that we can offer during this test. “Thank You” for lifting our clouds and letting the sunshine through.

The McNeal Family

Active Pallbearers

Trayvon Johnson ZeVion Price Ransom Shields

Larr McNeal Jr. Tyrone Sipp Willie Shields Jr.

Professional Services

MJ Edward Whitehaven Funeral Chapel 5994 Elvis Presley Blvd.

Memphis, TN

Internment

New Park Memorial Gardens 3900 Sewanee Rd. Memphis, TN 38109

Repast

The Event Center 3059 South Third St. Memphis, TN 38109 Programs by The Impact Marketing, LLC 901.300.6197