“Nona” was peacefully called home by her Heavenly Father on April 24, 2007.
Verna was a resident of Beaumont for 56 years and was co-owner of the Grapette “Mr.” Cola Bottling Co. until her retirement in 1985. She also worked at The White House and American Health Foods and was a member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas for 25 years.
Prior to moving to Beaumont, Verna was born and raised in Hebbronville, Texas. After graduating high school, she moved to California to pursue a career in fashion sales and modeling. While vacationing in Albuquerque, she met the “love of her life” Pete. They were married in 1948 and had three children.
Verna was preceded in death by her husband Peter Bevlaqua and son Kevin Bevlaqua, her birth parents Benjamin and Ruby Monsolo, her “real” parents Henry and Verna Woods and sisters Josephine Fasnacht and Golden Piekelniak.
She is survived by her son Gil Bevlaqua, daughter Kimberly and her husband Alan Minton; her grandsons Chris and Ethan Bevlaqua; her sister Gladys Wuest and several great grandchildren.
Those who knew Verna remember her zest for life, good humor and friendly personality. There was hardly a person who crossed her path that she did not take the time to get to know. Verna truly loved life and all the family and friends that God had blessed her with.
Verna’s family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Doctors Soberon, Aldrich and Sweet and the caring staff at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital, Dubuis Hospital and Odyssey Health Care for helping with her transition.
A celebration of Verna’s life will be held at Ridgewood Church of Christ on Saturday May 5, 2007 at 10:00 am. Those who wish to send a memorial gift may contribute to Medina Children’s Home, c/o Ridgewood Church of Christ, 2455 Commerce St., Beaumont, TX 77703.
