Mary Lavada Means

Mary Lavada Means entered into eternal rest surrounded by her family on November 1, 2017 at the age of ninety-three. Lavada came to Porterville from her hometown of Shady Point, Oklahoma to visit her older sister, Loretta, and while here, was introduced to Floyd Means. After a short courtship, the couple were married in a chapel in Las Vegas on March 18, 1946 and resided in Porterville ever since. She is survived by her husband of 71 years, Floyd, and their three children, Walt Means (Kathy) of Phelan, Bill Means (Barbara) of Porterville, Teresa Orth (Walt) also of Porterville.

Lavada enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, Karen Means, Josh Means, Ryan Means (Cortney), Taylor Means, Whitney Vickrey (Jack), and Tamara Orth. She also loved seeing her three great grandchildren, Sarah Jones, Jay Vickrey, and Duke Means. She is survived by one sister, Lavell Scantling and one brother, Troy Lee Smith, along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Iva Smith, brother, Charles Smith and sister, Loretta Tackett.

She loved being a homemaker and especially enjoyed cooking and baking. Her chocolate gravy and homemade biscuits will remain unrivaled. She also enjoyed working in her yard and tending to her flower and vegetable gardens. She was a longtime member of The First Missionary Baptist Church of Porterville. Our family would like to thank all of the caregivers who helped care of her over the last five years of her life. Visits from friends, family and her church family were always greatly appreciated. We would also like to express our sincere thanks to the staff at Sierra View District Hospital who cared for her during the final days of her life.

A memorial service in honor of Lavada will be held at Vandalia Cemetery on Thursday, November 16 at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please take a moment to visit a friend, family member or call a loved one and tell them you love them.