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Jannette Lavinder Carson, 80, formerly of Saxe, Chesapeake and Norfolk, passed away on Jan. 7, following a long illness. She was fiercely independent and a fighter to the last breath. 

Janne retired from Chesapeake Public Schools in 2008 following a career at Virginia Natural Gas. 

Mrs. Carson was the daughter of Dottsie Mae Lavinder and Edwin H. Lavinder, formerly of Rocky Mount. She was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Larry Carson. 

She is survived by her sisters; Gracie Gray of Avon, North Carolina and Nancy Turner of Bassett; three children; Richard Carson, Leonard Carson and Dianna Connoly; five grandchildren; Heather Carson, Leanne Stamper, Kyle Stone, Molly Carson and Grace Carson and seven great grandchildren. 

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to Madisonville Presbyterian Church, Madisonville, or simply pass on a kindness received by you. 

A graveside service will be held on Friday, Jan. 12, at 2 p.m., at Madisonville Presbyterian Church Cemetery. 

Puckett Funeral Home is serving the family. www.puckettfh.com.