LaVerne Collier Wiggins was born to Roy and Ellen Collier on June 16, 1922 in Brownfield, Texas. She displayed a talent for art at an early age and it became her passion throughout her lifetime.
She graduated from Brownfield High School and attended Abilene Christian for one year. With her brother, Carrol, in the service she felt compelled to postpone her education until a later date. She worked as a dental assistant for a few years and then enrolled in the University of New Mexico from which she received her Bachelor of Arts degree.
Returning to Texas she began her career with Hemphill-Wells in Lubbock. She married Noel “Wig” Wiggins in 1960. Their daughter, Noelle, was born the following year.
Verne and Wig headed the display department at Hemphill-Wells for approximately 30 years. Their Christmas windows became legends throughout the South Plains. A quote from the Lubbock Illustrated in 2003: “One of the most treasured Christmas traditions for many Lubbockites was an annual trip downtown, usually right after Thanksgiving dinner, to view the window decorations at Hemphill-Wells.”
Verne passed away April 26th but at our small family memorial she lived on in our stories, pictures and memories. Verne’s indescribable talent and joy of giving has enhanced many lives over the years. She will be missed!
She is survived by her daughter Noelle Wiggins of Portland, Oregon; her brother and wife Carrol and Barbara Collier of Ruidoso, N.M.; her sister and husband Wanda and Jim Wade of Holly Lake Ranch, Texas; 2 nieces and 4 nephews.
Online condolences may be sent to the family of LaVerne at [emailprotected]
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