Agnes Lavern (Gaines) Washington, Age 67 of Nanjemoy, Maryland.

Agnes Lavern (Gaines) Washington, affectionately known as Lavern, was born on October 20, 1948 in Grayton, Maryland to the late Lucille and Amos Gaines, Sr. On Thursday, November 26, 2015, Lavern peacefully departed this life at her home in Nanjemoy, Maryland surrounded by her family.

Lavern accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the age of twelve and was baptized at the Oak Grove Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend William Leach. As a devoted member, Lavern was not content to sit around and warm the pews. She immediately became involved in "whatever" needed to be done in the church. At a very young age, Lavern started working with the culinary ministry learning and eventually mastering the art of food preparation. This skill allowed her to collaborate with her Aunt and Cousin to launch their catering business, "CLK". It also allowed her to work with others to prepare and serve many delicious meals at her beloved church over the years. She served as a dedicated member of the Usher Board for over 50 years, beginning as a junior usher. Lavern served as president of the Senior Usher Board for many years before stepping down. During her tenure she enjoyed mentoring new ushers. She also served as Vice Treasurer of the Charles County Usher's Union. Lavern was instrumental in organizing the Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church Women's Ministry where she served as Vice President. She worked in many capacities doing God's work but was most proud of her role as Chairperson for the Mortgage Burning Ceremony.

She received her education through the Charles County Public School system and attended Pomonkey High School, Pomonkey, Maryland. Lavern was a student of the last segregated graduating class in 1966. After graduating high school she continued her education graduating from the Charles County Community College with a degree in Early Childhood Education. Lavern began her career at Mount Hope Elementary School, Nanjemoy, Maryland where she worked in various positions for several years including conducting parenting classes. Lavern worked at the Charles County Department of Social Services prior to transferring to Prince George's Department of Social Services. After her first grandchild was born she made the decision to end her work career and become a stay at home "Grammy". Lavern was an active member of the Nanjemoy Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary where she served as past Vice President. She was a former Foster parent for many years and volunteered in other capacities throughout her life. Although Lavern was no longer working she was busier than ever. Even still she always made time for her family.

On March 28, 1970, Lavern was united in holy matrimony to Rufus "Frostie" Washington and was blessed with four children. Through the years Lavern and Frostie took pleasure in many things; travelling, camping, enjoying their grandchildren and just spending time together. As Lavern's health began to fail, Frostie was there to nurture and care for her. Frostie and Lavern remained a loving and devoted couple until her death.

In addition to her role as "Grammy", Lavern was an avid reader, enjoyed word searches, cooking, baking, camping and entertaining her family. Everyone who came in contact with Lavern learned her personality first hand. She was known to be a straight shooter who didn't bite her tongue; you never had to wonder what was on her mind. To know her was to love and respect her for the jewel she was.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings; William, Randel, Paula and Christopher Gaines. Her loving memories will be cherished by her devoted husband of 45 years Rufus (Frostie), children Larry (Tawana) Hatton, Perry (Justice), Carla (Donald) Bacote and Keith (Africa) Washington; seven grandchildren, Damion, Kevin, Kaila, Makayla, Kennedy, Wynter and Kiersten. Nine siblings: Adelaide Proctor, Juanita Jones, Amos Gaines, Jr., Ethel Johnson, Romaine, Roland, Jerome, Scott and Mark Gaines. Three aunts: Ardell Bannister, Mary Swann and Celeste Smith; Two uncles: Jesse and William Lawson. A special God Daughter, Erica Gaines and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. Lavern was a loving sister, wife, mother and Grammy who will be sincerely missed.

Viewing, 9:00am until 10:45am; Service, 11:00am, Saturday, December 5, 2015 at the Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 11220 Holly Spring Road, Nanjemoy, Maryland 20662. Interment, Church Cemetery.