Bowling Green, Kentucky Mourns the Loss of Laverne Smith Furlong
Bowling Green, Kentucky, is grieving the loss of a beloved community member, Laverne Smith Furlong, who passed away on September 30, 2024. She was born on January 15, 1930, in Barren County, Kentucky, to the late Herbert M. and Byrdie Lewis Smith. Laverne lived a full life, surrounded by love and family, and is remembered fondly by all who knew her.
A Life Well-Lived
Laverne Furlong was preceded in death by her husband, David Furlong, with whom she shared 61 devoted years. Together, they raised a family that consisted of two children, Allan Furlong and Joyce Furlong.
Grandchildren were a significant part of Laverne’s life, and she will be lovingly remembered as MawMaw to her six grandchildren: Sherry Simpson (Randy), Chris Furlong (Robin), Charla Lindbloom (Scott), Kayla Johnson (Shed), Kalan Brown (Crystal), and Eliah Furlong. She was also a proud great-grandmother to eight great-grandchildren and even had a great-great-grandson, Hixon Johnson, who affectionately called her “Mo.”
Family Roots and Community Ties
Laverne had close family ties, including her brother, Rolland Smith (Jessica), and sister, Rebecca Bradshaw. She also remembered her dear late brothers as she was preceded in death by four siblings: Marvin, Millard (Bill), Stanley, and Haskell Smith.
Growing up, Laverne experienced a simpler time, attending a one-room school and a nearby one-room Church of Christ at Beckton. As a student, she graduated from Glasgow High School in 1946. Her life’s journey was closely intertwined with David’s family; they grew up near each other, which led to their eventual marriage on February 18, 1951, when they were both 21 years old.
A Career and Community Engagement
After getting married, Laverne and David moved around Barren County and Jefferson County before settling in Warren County, where they would raise their family. Laverne contributed to her community by working at the cafeteria at both Bristow and Warren East schools. Even post-retirement, she kept busy by doing food demonstrations in local grocery stores.
Throughout her life, Laverne remained an active member of the Lehman Avenue Church of Christ, and previously attended the University Church of Christ, where she frequently taught children’s Bible classes. Her Christian faith was a guiding principle, reflected in her love for reading her Bible, which was always close at hand.
A Passion for Cooking and Family
Laverne was particularly known for her love of cooking and baking. Family members often remarked on how she added “a little bit of sugar and a lot of love” into every dish she prepared. In her honor, her grandchildren compiled a cookbook dedicated to her cherished recipes. Beyond the kitchen, she enjoyed hobbies that included coloring, puzzles, sewing, bird-watching, and cheering on the Cincinnati Reds. She was also an avid fan of Hallmark movies. Yet, nothing brought her more joy than spending time with family and friends on her carport.
Final Arrangements
The community is invited to pay their respects and celebrate Laverne’s life. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hardy and Son Funeral Home in Bowling Green. Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 6, 2024, from 2 to 7 pm, and again on Monday, October 7, 2024, from 9 to 11 am. The funeral service is scheduled for 11 am, followed by a burial at Bowling Green Gardens.
