Remembering Veneta Lavaughn Martin: A Life of Love and Faith

Obituary: Veneta Lavaughn (Williams) Martin

Veneta Lavaughn Martin, 89, of Houston, Missouri, passed away on November 25, 2024. She was born on July 15, 1935, in Yukon, Missouri, to John and Glendola Williams.

Veneta is preceded in death by her parents, John and Glendola Williams; her husband, Harold “Pepper” Martin; two sisters, Dora Elgin and Donna Valleroy; and two brothers, Eugene and Charles Williams.

She is survived by her sisters, Arlene Brill from Mountain Grove, Missouri, and Dorothy Medlock from Enid, Oklahoma; her brother, Glenn (Susie) Williams from Cabool, Missouri; her son, Roger (Tammy) Martin from Houston; her grandson, Jason (Bobbi) Martin; and four great-grandchildren: Jaydin Williams, Taylor Martin, Ashlynn Brazier, and Trenton Martin. Veneta also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Veneta grew up on a farm in Yukon and helped care for her siblings. She married Harold “Pepper” Martin on October 25, 1953. They settled in Houston and welcomed their son, Roger, in 1961. Veneta worked at International Shoe and the HD Lee Factory in Houston throughout her life.

A devoted member of the Houston Bible Baptist Church, Veneta accepted Christ at a young age. She was baptized at Big Creek in Yukon and remained faithful throughout her life. Veneta cherished her Bible and often carried it with her.

Gardening was one of Veneta’s passions. She loved growing vegetables and preserving them for her family. She was also a talented quilter, creating special quilts for her child and grandchildren. Her hobbies included sewing, crocheting, and reading the Bible.

Veneta deeply loved her family. She was especially proud of her son, Roger, and viewed her daughter-in-law, Tammy, as a daughter. She enjoyed attending her grandson Jason’s baseball games and adored her great-grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Granny.”

Veneta was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She dedicated her life to helping others and living for God. Her presence will be missed, but her loved ones find comfort knowing she is with Jesus in Heaven.

Visitation and Funeral Service

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 2, 2024, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Evans Funeral Home in Houston. The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. with Pastors Gordon Rhoades and Dennis Ulrey officiating.

Pallbearers will include Roger Martin, Jason Martin, Trenton Martin, Bob Schafer, Lee Schafer, Jaydin Williams, Ashlynn Brazier, and Taylor Martin. Veneta will be laid to rest at Pine Lawn Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care of Evans Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.evansfh.com.