MILDRED LAVERNE MAYFIELD

Mildred LaVerne Mayfield, 99, of Nemaha, died peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2015 in Cedar Falls, IA. She wa sborn to John and Vere (Hoover) Shafer on the family farm on Aug. 16, 1915 — she was just two weeks from celebrating her 100^th birthday with family and friends. 

She spent her youth on the farm attending McCandless rural elementary school and graduated from Shubert High School in 1932. Upon graduation from Peru State College, she taught high school math and home economics at Elk Horn and Brock, and later became County Home Extension Agent, living at Weeping Water. She also attended the University of Nebraska for graduate studies.

On Nov. 24, 1946, she married Bob C. Mayfield. They devoted their lives to raising their five sons on the family farm. When the family grew to include daughters-in-law, 18 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren, they continued the same love, faith and support that was the hallmark of their lives. The much-anticipated family gatherings were always the highlight of their year.

Bob and LaVerne spent the first seven years of their married life farming in the Louisville area until they relocated, in 1953, to the Shafer family farm where she grew up. LaVerne loved the Nemaha Christian Church, where she was baptized and was a lifelong member, and where she devoted many years to teaching and leading the youth group. She also gave of herself throughout her life to the support of 4-H clubs and community organizations and activities. Bob and LaVerne dedicated their lives to their church, their family and their community. 

LaVerne and Bob spent winters in their retirement years in Harlingen, TX, where they enjoyed square dancing, cards, golf and many other activities. She loved socializing with friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 55 years; and her sister, Elaine Holdorf.

Survivors include five sons and daughters-in-law, John (Sheila). of Auburn, Bob (Carol), of Cedar Falls, IA, Steve (Peggy), of Syracuse, Ronald (Pamela), of Vonore, TN, and Vern (Pamela), of Highland Village, TX; sister, Merilyn Keithley, of Falls City; 18 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. 

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 7, 2015 at the Nemaha Christian Church. Burial will follow in the Nemaha Cemetery. Visitation will be at Hemmingsen Funeral Home, Auburn, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, with family greeting friends from 6-8. Memorials are suggested to family choice.