Lavina B. Gray, 92 of Russell died Thursday, October 7, 2010 at the Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell, Kansas.

Lavina was born November 29, 1917 on the family farm north of Russell, the daughter of Henry and Anna (Schneider) Bender.  She grew up in Russell County and attended country schools.

Lavina was united in marriage to Ernest C. Homewood on July 24, 1935 in Genesco, Kansas.  This union was blessed with five children; Vera, Benton, Lois, David and Rodney.  Ernest preceded her in death.  Later she was united in marriage to Elvie Gray in 1977.  Elvie also preceded her.

Lavina was a devoted mother, homemaker and farmer’s wife.  She also cooked for different restaurants over the years.

Lavina was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church of Luray.  She also belonged to the Russell V.F.W. Post #6240 Ladies Auxiliary.  She loved playing the organ, which she did by ear, playing Bingo, fishing, going to Arizona to see her sister and watching birds.  She was very proud of her Vincent Price Autograph.

Surviving family include three children:  Lois F. Boyd of Russell, Kansas, David Homewood and wife June of Russell, Kansas and Rodney Homewood and wife Chaunda of Skiatook, Oklahoma; sister, Esther Kornmeyer and husband Roy of North Dakota; 16 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter Vera Karst, son Benton Homewood, five brothers and 3 sisters.

Celebration of Lavina’s Life will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, October 15, 2010 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell with Pastor Gene Langhofer officiating.  Cremation has preceded the services.  A memorial has been established with Wheatland Nursing Center.  Contributions and condolences may be sent in care of Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.