Laverne Cornelius Bacon

May 8, 1933 - December 8, 2018

Laverne Cornelius Bacon was born in Chicago, Illinois on May 8, 1933. She was the youngest of 13 children, born to James Oliver and Annie Mae Slayton. She moved to Jackson Michigan as a teenager, residing with Reuben and Montrel Upchurch, where she became an integral part of the Upchurch family.  She completed her high school education at Jackson High School and went on to obtain a nursing degree from Jackson Community College. She married Robert Bacon on July 29, 1967. Their union was made complete with the birth of their son, Ronnie, in 1974. Laverne practiced nursing for more than 40 years. She was the first African- American scrub nurse working in private practice in the Jackson region. In fact, Laverne was part of an elite nursing staff. Laverne along with 3 other trailblazing women were often requested and preferred by the local surgeons because of their strong work ethic and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.  She worked for the beloved Dr. Nathan Monroe in private practice and at Foote Hospital until his retirement. Laverne continued working at Foote Hospital's nursing staff until her retirement in the late 90’s.Laverne was baptized into the fellowship of the Higby Street Church of Christ and was a vibrant member of the Golden-Agers. Sister Bacon, as she was affectionately known, was a straight talker and would often be seen sharing a secret smile with friends and church family.Laverne loved to play card games including bid whist and spades, frequently downplaying her skills while plotting her decisive attack. Other hobbies included entertaining family and friends in their home while listening to the soulful sounds of great musicians including her husband’s band. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Bobby Bacon, son, Ronnie (Therese) Bacon, and granddaughter, Sasha Bacon. A whole host of close friends, family both blood related and "adopted" were blessed to call Laverne aunt, sister, confidant, and friend.