Anna Laverne McLeod Von Kanel

Anna Laverne McLeod Vonkanel, 99, of Pascagoula, MS, peacefully went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 1, 2025. She was surrounded by her loving family, who cherished her unwavering faith, boundless energy, and remarkable zest for life.

Born on April 17, 1925 in Moss Point, MS, she was a beacon of love and kindness to all who knew her. She dedicated her life to her faith, family, and friends, touching countless lives through her compassion and generosity.

As a devoted mother, she raised three children with a firm but loving hand, instilling in them the values of faith, hard work, and kindness.

Her spunky spirit was evident to everyone who met her. Whether she was playing bingo, shopping, or sharing a kind word, she lived her life with enthusiasm and grace, leaving an indelible mark on all who crossed her path.

A lifelong christian, she was a faithful member of Arlington Heights Baptist Church, where she spent years worshipping her Lord and Savior on Sundays. Her faith was her cornerstone, guiding her every step and offering comfort to others in times of need.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Norvell (Mary Estelle), her beloved husbands,  Adolph A. McLeod and Lewis Vonkanel, her sister, Ms. Josa Lee Rogers, and one grandchild, Lance Coulter, whom she now joyfully reunites with in Heaven.

She is survived by one son, Mr. Simmie B. McLeod, two daughters Mrs. Dianne (Don) Coulter, and Mrs. Connie (Jerry) Black, all of Pascagoula, MS; sister, Ovilla Moore, Mobile, AL;  four grandchildren Mrs. Erica (Scott) Wilson Ocean Springs, MS, Mrs. Amanda (Leslie) Gunn, Pascagoula, MS, Mr. Justin Black, of Pascagoula, MS, Mrs. Lindsay (George) Zoghby, Mobile, AL; five great grandchildren, Madelyn Wilson, Ocean Springs, MS, Gabrielle (Drake) Killingsworth, Gautier, MS, Luke Black, Pascagoula, MS, Isabelle Black, Pascagoula, MS, Michael Zoghby, Mobile, AL;  one great-great grandchild, Ase Killingsworth, Gautier, MS, who will forever cherish her memory and strive to honor her legacy. 

Visitation will be Tuesday, January 7th, 2025 at O’’Bryant O’Keefe Funeral Home, Pascagoula, from 10:00am-11:00am. Funeral services will follow in the funeral home chapel at 11:00am, with Rev. Michael Wilkerson and Rev. Tracy Martin officiating the services.  Interment will be in Jackson County Memorial Park in Pascagoula. 

The family would like to express sincere thanks to the dedicated caregivers from Hospice of Light and friends, Mavis Havis and Teresa Sanderson who provided loving support during her final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Arlington Baptist Church Missionary Offering in her memory. 

Anna Laverne McLeod Vonkanel was a shining example of a life well-lived. Her unwavering faith, loving spirit, and joyful heart will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

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