Laverne Lucille Goetz

Laverne Lucille (Dankworth) Goetz, 82, of Winters passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2013 in Abilene at her daughter’s home. Heaven and earth rejoiced as she entered into the presence of God where joy never ends.

She was born August 11, 1930 in Ballinger to Charles Edward and Anna Ellen (Fuchs) Dankworth. Laverne married D. J. Goetz, Jr. on November 28, 1950 in Olfen, and the couple raised seven children.

Laverne was a woman of many talents which she readily shared with everyone. She was a woman of great faith and was genuinely devoted and committed to her Savior, His will, and His work. Laverne was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church where she taught religious education for over 40 years and was a member of the altar society. She was involved in the Charismatic Movement of the Catholic Church. She ministered to those God put in her life, even to those in prison. A friend said that she gave of herself with a heart full of love.

Laverne had many artistic talents that she developed and shared. She deeply loved and appreciated music and poetry and even composed some herself. She shared her culinary talents as well, making and decorating countless cakes. She was an excellent seamstress and especially enjoyed making baptismal gowns. All who knew or met Laverne were blessed by her special gifts and her sweet spirit.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a son, Jay Gregory Goetz.

Laverne is survived by her children, Karen Lochmann, Deborah Buchanan, Mark Goetz, Kurt Goetz, J. D. Goetz and wife Tammy, and Dianne Goetz; brothers, Dan Dankworth and wife Sheila, Herbert Dankworth and wife Iris; sisters, Doris Ann “Doodle” Dankworth, Jeanie Minzenmayer and husband Bud, and Frances Dankworth. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, other family members, and a host of admiring friends.

Rosary will be recited Sunday, March 31 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Ballinger. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 1 also at St. Mary Catholic Church with Msgr. Bernard Gully and Fr. Bob Baden con-celebrating. Burial will follow in Old Runnels Cemetery. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers; granddaughters will be honorary pallbearers.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”