The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:

He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul. Psalm 23:1-3

LaVerne Estelle Burrell Sauls peacefully transitioned from this life to glorious eternal rest on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in Richmond, Virginia, at the age of 75.

LaVerne was born on August 30, 1950, in Richmond, Virginia, to the late Thomasine Etheridge Burrell and Horace Lee Burrell, Sr.

LaVerne graduated from Armstrong High School and pursued higher education with determination, earning her Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). She often spoke proudly of being in the process of obtaining her Master's degree at VCU, only one semester away, before pausing her studies to fulfill one of her greatest joys – serving her family. She later began her career working with the State of Virginia.

As a devoted Social Worker, LaVerne dedicated her life to helping others navigate life's challenges with dignity and care. She was known for her servant's heart and unwavering commitment to those entrusted to her care.

LaVerne was a faithful and active member of The Glorious Church of God in Christ No. 2, where she served in numerous capacities including Secretary, Treasurer, Missionary, Usher, Choir member, and other leadership roles. She also maintained a cherished connection to Fifth Street Baptist Church, the longtime church home of her beloved mother. LaVerne's faith was marked by both servant leadership and strength, lived out daily through action rather than words alone.

Living her life anchored in faith, LaVerne often reflected on scriptures such as Hebrews 11:1 and Philippians 4:11, which mirrored her confidence, contentment, and trust in God. Her life reflected Psalm 23:1, as she would be provided for in every way – shelter, food, resources, and above all, LOVE.

To know LaVerne was to experience love in motion. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and genuine concern for others. Many can recall depending on her for a warm welcome into her home for lodging, hot meals, a friendly car ride, trusted childcare, or simply a listening ear.

LaVerne loved sewing, reading, hosting, music, caregiving, and creating moments of joy for others. Whether baking her well-known pound cakes for church events, sewing her own wedding dress and a variety of her children's clothing, or opening her home and heart, she found purpose in giving. She gave of herself freely, believing no sacrifice was too great for God or His people. Compassionate, loving, and joyful, she also gave grace freely – accepting people as they were and loving them fully.

LaVerne leaves to embrace her loving memory her husband, Timothy Lee Sauls; three cherished daughters, Anitra (Zebulon) Brooks, Garlanda "Jocelyn" Peterson, and LaVonne Sauls; two stepsons, Thomas "Mitchell" (Gloria) Nettles and Gary Sauls; six grandchildren, Zaynah Brooks, Nadia Peterson, Ayana Brooks, Jada Brooks, Jadon Peterson, and Arris Sauls; and a great-granddaughter, Yasmine Brooks. LaVerne is also survived by her sisters, Sheila "Buttercup" Burrell and Deborah Herbert; her brother Robert Burrell, Sr.; beloved sister-in-law, Florence Sauls, who held a special place in her life; former spouse and childhood friend, Garland "Billy" Peterson; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to her parents, LaVerne was preceded in death by her brothers, Horace Burrell, Jr. and Michael Burrell, and her sister Loretta Burrell.

Her love, strength, and joy will forever be remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Professional services entrusted to Walter J. Manning Funeral Home, 700 N. 25th St., where a memorial service will be held Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 11 a.m.

Funeral services can be viewed online by selecting the "View Funeral Webcast" link below on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

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