Lavaughn Joye Zwanziger's Obituary
Celebrating the Life of
Lavaughn Joye Zwanziger
July 9, 1937 – October 31, 2025
A Life Remembered
It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Lavaughn Joye Zwanziger, affectionately known as “Bonnie,” on Friday, October 31, 2025. She was 88 years old.
Lavaughn was born on July 9, 1937 in Camp, Arkansas. into a large and loving family. Being the oldest, she helped raise many siblings with a motherly passion. She had a generous heart, strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. She married Robert Zwanziger in 1961 and raised two children, Doris and Frank, with unwavering love and devotion.
Her life was marked by service and compassion. After moving to Forest City, Iowa, Lavaughn became an EMT and worked at Winnebago. She later began a long and dedicated career at Presbyterian Hospital, starting in the ER department, transitioning to Environmental Services, and ultimately retiring from the Medical Records Department after more than 30 years of service.
Lavaughn was happiest when helping others and sharing her stories. She was caring and supportive and loved her family. Always wanting to gift cherished items, sew Christmas stockings, make recipe books for the grandchildren and just be present with her contagious laughter gave us joy. She had a servant’s heart and always put others first. Her generosity was quiet but profound, and her strength was rooted in grace and humility.
She loved her family deeply and was the loudest and proudest supporter at her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events. She cherished her cats, was an avid reader, enjoyed gardening, cooking, and spending time with loved ones. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and seeing her family happy brought her immense joy. She especially treasured her girl trips with her sisters.
Lavaughn will be remembered as a caring and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She found joy in sharing stories about her childhood on the farm and was always proud to speak of her children and grandchildren. Her warmth, humor, and unwavering support touched everyone who knew her.
She is survived by her children, Doris Richard and husband, Tom and Frank Zwanziger and wife, Lisa; grandchildren Lexie Zwanziger, Michelle Wilson, and Samantha Wilson; great-grandchildren Madison, Brody, Addison, Jason, Harrison, and Penelope; as well as extended family and many cherished siblings and relatives. In accordance with the family’s wishes, those who preceded her in death will be honored privately. A private graveside service for immediate family will be held, with live streaming available for those who wish to attend remotely. There will be no reception following the service.
Lavaughn’s legacy is one of love, service, and strength. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
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