Laverne A. Lenkaitis

LaVerne Lenkaitis, 93, of West Pittston, passed away, peacefully and surrounded by family, at her home on Monday, March 13, 2023.

Born in Laurel Run, LaVerne was the daughter of the late Wilbur and Besse (Belles) Griffith. She attended Coughlin High School and was employed by the Wyoming Area School District for more than 25 years. Earlier in her life, LaVerne sang professionally with several bands and on radio stations, which led her to meet her husband, Tony.

LaVerne continued to sing and entertain family and friends at get-togethers, especially at birthdays, with her famous verse. She had a quick wit and was recently described as a “spitfire,” which fit her perfectly. LaVerne’s timeless Jersey and Guernsey joke always had you on the edge of your seat. She loved to cook and bake. Everyone always waited to get a batch of grandma’s famous chocolate chip cookies or try one of mom’s delectable dishes. LaVerne was one lucky lady with her scratch-off lottery tickets, and she got a kick out of going to the casino and watching game shows.

Most of all, LaVerne loved her family. She treasured visits, calls, and cards from those near and far. LaVerne cherished all the time that she spent with her son, Anthony, who she always described as her heart. She was so thankful to Anthony, who was given the gift of being able to care for his mom at the end of her life. LaVerne had lots of fun with her daughter-in-law, Chesla, especially when they got their hair done, drank wine and ate chocolates, played the crane game at Angelo’s, and shouted “Olé.” LaVerne was extremely proud of her grandson, AJ, and she wouldn’t hesitate to tell you so. LaVerne loved AJ more than anything. One of her greatest joys was seeing him and his girlfriend, Kate, when they came in to visit. LaVerne had a ball with her daughter-in-law’s brother, Chris Bohinski, who always went out of his way to make her feel loved and special. Her mentions on “PA Live” constantly made her smile.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Anthony Lenkaitis, and their infant son, Mark; brother, Barry Griffith; and sisters, Georgiann Ehman, Jackie Karazia, and Leslie Holt.

Surviving are her son and daughter-in-law, Anthony and Chesla Lenkaitis of Wyoming; Grandson, AJ Lenkaitis, of Philadelphia; sister, Betty Heffron, of Olyphant; and several nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to Jesse Kabana and the entire team at Personal Home Health and Hospice, who allowed her to comfortably pass away with dignity in her home.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 20th, at 10:00 AM at St. Monica’s Parish. Private interment will follow.