Avanel Frances Quimby

Avanell Richardson Quimby went home April 27, 2017. She was born on November 23, 1923, in Colmesneil, to the late Helen Lockart Richardson and Cason Richardson.

Avanell graduated high school in 1941. She received her secretarial degree from Chenier College in Beaumont. World War II began and she wanted to help with the war effort, so she worked as Rosie the Riveter at the shipyard in Orange. Avanell then took an electrical course and started as an electrician supervisor at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana. Later, she moved to Washington, D.C. and was secretary to an Admiral with the Navy Department. After working in D.C., Avanell moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she got married and worked at the Gilcrease Art Museum. She retired four years ago to be near her daughter. Avanell was currently a member of First Baptist Church in Port Arthur.

Survivors include her daughter, Reneé Utley of Beaumont; sister, Margurite Holder of Port Arthur; step-son, Robert Utley; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Charlie Utley; and brothers, James and Robert Richardson.

A memorial service for Mrs. Quimby will be at 11:30 a.m., Friday, May 5, 2017, at Procter Baptist Church, 4401 Jimmy Johnson Boulevard, Port Arthur, with Reverend Rick Erwin presiding. Her cremation arrangements were held through Broussard’s Crematorium under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gilbert Assisted Living, 5110 Elk Run Circle, Beaumont, Texas 77707; or to a charity of one’s choice.