Ava Webster

July 19, 2011

Ava Webster
Ava Webster died suddenly on July 9, 2011, at her home in Bokoshe. She was born Avarilla Mae Wingo on Jan. 27, 1932, in Paul’s Valley. Ava was the eldest daughter of William and Agnes Wingo’s 11 children and was affectionately known as “Sis.” She married Virgil “Bunk” Webster on Dec. 21, 1946. They moved to Santa Maria, Calif., where they raised a son, Rick, and a daughter, Holly.
Ava had a true servant’s heart, quickly giving her time, talent and resources to help those less fortunate. She was especially fond of animals and rescued many abandoned cats and dogs. Her greatest love, however, was helping children. Ava spent many happy years as a teacher’s aide at Arellanes Elementary in Santa Maria and in Bokoshe schools. Always willing to volunteer, she served as a Cub Scout den mother, sports coach, Girl Scout leader, PTA leader, Parks and Recreation leader and special member of the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission. Another great love was reading, and Ava delighted in being Bokoshe’s librarian these past few years.
She died peacefully, surrounded by her beloved animals, books and mementoes. Ava was preceded in death by her husband on March 31, 2007. She will be dearly missed by friends, family, current and former students. Her survivors include her son, Rick Webster and his wife, Betsy, of Bay St. Louis, Miss.; her daughter, Holly Webster, of Raleigh, N.C.; eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, four brothers, three sisters and numerous nieces, nephew and cousins.
Cremation will take place under the direction of Evans and Miller Funeral Home in Poteau. A celebration of her life is planned for this fall in Bokoshe. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that Ava be remembered by donating to local animal rescue organizations.
Online messages may be left at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com. Evans and Miller Funeral Home is handling arrangements.