Lavena Kay VanDusen

Lavena Kay Moore VanDusen, 64, was born on June 15, 1960, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Gaylon Moore and Sonia Waller Moore. She grew up in Newcastle, Oklahoma, and was baptized at Jesus Is Alive Church.

Lavena met the love of her life, Michael Ray VanDusen, and they were married on August 30, 1978. Together they built a home in Oklahoma City and raised three children: Pamela Marie VanDusen, Sidney Michael VanDusen, and Lori Kay (VanDusen) McDaniel. In 1992, she moved her family to Chandler, Oklahoma, where she spent the rest of her days as a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and treasured friend.

Known by all who loved her as wild, free, and fun, Lavena had a spirit that lit up every room she entered. She found joy in music, singing, and driving down the highway with the window down, the wind in her hair. Her love came in many forms–fierce, deep, and unwavering–and her life was filled with meaning and connection.

She is preceded in death by: her parents, Gaylon and Sonia Moore, and her siblings, Donald Clyde Moore, Michael Creston Moore, and Roni Gay Moore Hunt.

Lavena is survived by: her children, Pamela, Sidney, and Lori and husband, Michael McDaniel; her beloved grandchildren, James, William, Daisy, Anthony, Michael, Nicholas, and Alexander; and many nieces and nephews whom she loved deeply.

Lavena will be remembered for her strength, her free spirit, and the deep love she had for her family–love that continues on in the lives she touched.

Her service will be held at 11 a.m. April 26, 2025, at First Christian Church in Chandler. Lunch will follow the service.