NEWS

4-9-11 - Recieved word this week from numerous CSH staff members of the passing of former Camarillo State Hospital Employee Keith McClure. Please read obituary below which was forwarded by Susan Gransee:

Robert Keith McClure(1940 - 2011)

(1940 2011) Robert Keith McClure, 70, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 19, 2011 in Middleburg, Fla.

Keith was born in Woodburn, Ore., on June 6, 1940. He spent his childhood in Portland, Ore., his teenage years in Stockton, Calif., until setting up long-term residency in Camarillo in 1963. He was employed as a psychiatric technician for the Camarillo State Hospital from 1963 until it's closing in 1996. He was a longtime member of the Camarillo Moose Lodge where he spent most Fridays commanding the BBQ and sharing jokes. He then transferred to the Porterville, Calif., Developmental Center until his retirement in 2001. He then moved to Middleburg, Fla., to be near friends and to practice the fine art of relaxation, which included cooking, fishing and his strongest passion, reading.

 Keith is survived by his daughters, Dawn McClure (Beatrice), of Yucca Valley, Debbie Hannigan (Jerry), of Camarillo; his granddaughters, Kate and Nicole Hannigan, of Camarillo; his sisters, Judy Lindstrom, of Anderson, Mary Hansen, of Middletown, Margaret Johnson (Al), of Anderson, Roberta Harder, of Camarillo, Diane Willis (Lee), of Simi Valley; his brother, Michael McClure (Luanna), of Simi Valley; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lee and Gladys McClure.

 Memorial donations may be made in Keiths name to the Humane Society of Ventura County, P.O. Box 297, Ojai, CA 93024.

10 - 5 - 10 The following email was received today concerning the deaths of two former CSH employees:

"Larry Savino died at home this weekend in Ventura County... services are pending and a notice will be in the paper soon..

Email courtesy of Susan Gransee

Further information to be added as soon as available

9 - 16 -2010

To former CSH employees:
I wanted to let you know about the first annual Remembrance Ceremony we will be having at the former grounds of Camarillo State Hospital to honor and acknowledge those people with psychiatric and/or developmental disabilities who lived and died at state hospitals and institutions across California.
At the ceremony on Sept. 20th at 6:15 pm, we will be holding a ceremony on the CSUCI campus, with speakers who will provide information about the history of the California Memorial Project and Camarillo State Hospital, and former residents of the hospital who will be sharing some of their experiences there. We will also present a poem and song that are meaningful and symbolic to the consumer and client community.
I hope that you will distribute and/or email these flyers to anyone you think might be interested in attending. If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to call me at (310) 628-5230.
Thanks,
Robyn Gantsweg
Disability Rights California

IN MEMORIUM

Twalley Baysinger

1949 - 2006

Information provided by Melissa Rice - Twalley Faye's daughter

Dr. Leonard Diamond 1937 - 2009 Leonard Diamond Ph. D., who had been a longtime resident of Camarillo, died December 14, 2008 in Carlsbad, California. Len was born on June 12, 1937 in New York City where he grew up. He graduated from the Bronx High School of Science in 1954, and from Hobart College in 1958. He received his PhD in psychology from Catholic University of America in 1966. He served in the U.S. Army for 1961 to 1966, doing much of his psychology training at Letterman and Walter Reed hospitals. Len moved to Camarillo with his wife and daughter in 1966 to work as a psychologist at Camarillo State Hospital. He started his private practice as a psychotherapist and gradually decreased his hours at the hospital as his practice grew. He continued to supervise the psychology interns at the hospital, a job he loved, for several years until he no longer could fit this into his schedule. By the 1990's Len's practice was increasingly focused on forensic work, principally custody evaluations. Len very much enjoyed working with many attorneys here in Ventura County. Len served on the School Board of the Pleasant Valley School District for three terms, a job he took very seriously and enjoyed immensely. After moving to San Diego County, Len continued to work as a forensic psychologist in Ventura County, giving it up completely as his health declined. Len is survived by his daughters, Juliet Chan of San Diego and Jennifer Diamond (husband Dr. Jieshi Yan) of Moorpark, and by his grandson, Connor Chan of San Diego. He is also survived by his two ex-wives, Penny Diamond of Camarillo and Sandra Dickerson of Carlsbad , California. Information courtesy of Susan Gransee Steven Gregory Steven Gregory 1961 - 2007 Steven Gregory lost his courageous battle with esophageal cancer after two-and-a-half years on Aug. 26, 2007, with his family, friends and firefighter brothers by his side. Steven was fortunate enough to find his niche in life as a firefighter for the last 15 years and performed that job with honor. Prior to this he was a psychiatric technician at Camarillo State Hospital for 19 years. Steven had a keen sense of humor, contagious laugh, a huge heart and was well known in the softball community for his swiftness of foot and love of the game. He was also an excellent cook, an avid reader and remembered every joke that he was ever told. Steven had an enormous sense of family both for the family that he was born into and the family that he discovered when he became a firefighter that carried him through to the end. Steven was born on June 15, 1961, in Porterville, Calif., and moved to Ventura County in 1962. He is survived by his daughters, Ande and Stevie Rae, and their mother, Robin; parents, Thelma and Albert Gregory; sisters, Barbara Price and Tresa Gregory; nieces, Treva (husband David) Pettingill and Kristi Price; nephew, Zachary Ziese; great-nephews, Benjamin and Andrew Pettingill; great-niece, Jordyn Price; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and his loyal dog, Alize, who never left his side. A celebration of his life will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 31, at the Camarillo Community Center, 1605 E. Burnly St., Camarillo. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Esophageal Cancer Awareness Association, P.O. Box 7327, Ventura, CA 93006, or to the Relay For Life Camarillo for Steven Gregory. Assisting the family with arrangements is Conejo Mountain Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 2052 Howard Rd., Camarillo, CA 93012; phone 805-482-1959 Steven's information provided by his sister Barbara Price In checking emails on an old computer two obituaries were found that had not been posted to the website. My apologies, both are now posted below. (a.h.) Pete Nava Peter Estrada Nava 1935 - 2009 It is with great sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our loving father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Peter Estrada Nava. Peter was born in Oxnard, CA on December 6, 1935 from the union of Santiago Nava and Maria Nava and raised by his grandfather Telesforo Nava and grandmother Antonia Nava. Daddy passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Sunday April 19, 2009 after his courageous battle with Thyroid cancer. Daddy's passion was music and animals. One of his favorite past times was getting together with his brother-in-law Alfred Carmona and cousin Joe Nava to play guitar and sing. He also played with the Estrada Brothers band for many years, which was a big part of his life. Daddy was called into the U.S Army in November of 1956 where he trained as a U.S Army Combat Medic and later assigned to the MASH unit. When he returned he went straight back to his music career. He later began a long career of 22 years at Camarillo State Hospital as a Psychiatric Technician and then later decided to change careers into the law enforcement where he became a State Hospital Police Officer for 18 years and retired then in 1996, but he couldn't leave his passion so went back a month later and remained there until the State Hospital closed. Daddy always said his best years were spent at the hospital where he gained friends that he considered his extended family that remained close throughout his life. Peter is survived by 2 loving sisters, Annie Carmona (husband Alfred Carmona) and Margret and her husband. Also 2 daughters who loved him more than words can express, "mousey" Rosalie Nava and "garbanzo bean" Debra Nava, daddy always gave silly nicknames. Also his wife Connie Nava of more than 50 years. His loving and devoted grandchildren Wendy(husband Nigel), Jason, Jessica and Brianna, and his great-grandchildren that he loved more than life itself, Annabelle, Brenden, and Gage. Also his companion, best friend, and loving partner, Mary Catherine Hosford of more than 20 years, along with her children Lori, Shawn, Brian, and Rhonda Robinson. Daddy and Mary spent their remaining years in Porterville, CA where they both continued their careers, when they later retired in 2003. They then continued to devote their lives to their animals, which were like their children and accepted any stray on the street that needed a home or food. They always kept their home open to family and neighborhood children to use the pool on hot summer days. Everyone knew him to be the animal lover of the block. Daddy lived a wonderful and successful life with love and such a great sense of humor. Life was more beautiful thanks to God giving us the gift of Peter Estrada Nava. He will be truly missed by his family and friends. Sweet Dreams Grandpa. Ed Ray Edward T. Ray 1936 - 2009 Longtime Camarillo resident Edward T. Ray died March 11, 2009, after a long illness. He was 72. Edward was born in New Toronto, Ontario, Canada, September 14, 1936. He earned his Bachelors degree in Psychology from the University of Toronto in 1960, his Masters degree in Psychology from the University of Toronto in 1961, and his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Queens University in 1964. He moved to Porterville, California in 1965 with his first wife, Elizabeth Dodwell, to work at Porterville State Hospital. He moved to Camarillo in 1975 to work at the Camarillo State Hospital (CSH), where he remained until the hospital shut its doors in 1998. He and Elizabeth had two daughters, Linda and Katrina. Ed and Elizabeth divorced in 1986. In the years since his retirement, Dr. Ray worked as fundraiser for the United Way, as a court-appointed special advocate, and as a member of Camarillo's Citizen Patrol, working with the Camarillo Police Department. He was an avid outdoorsman, and a lifelong fan of classical music, ice hockey, and Canadian culture. His favorite activities included woodworking, clock making, creating problem-solving "gadgets" at his workbench, and keeping in touch with retired CSH staff. He married Joanne Klein of Camarillo in 1993; they divorced in 2005. Ed and Jo travelled extensively through Europe and Africa, nourishing his deep appreciation of other places, and other cultures. Ed had an amazing zest for life. His humor, dry wit, and generous spirit will be missed. He was predeceased by his father, John Ray, his mother, Lucy Pikula, and his brother, Stan Ray. He is survived by his daughters, Katrina Ray-Barackman, Long Beach, California, and grandchildren Dylan and Ethan Barackman; and Linda Jackson, Portland, Oregon, and grandchildren Tralee and Joy McClain. He is also survived by his nieces Sandi Bigelli and Karen Howson, and his nephews Brian Ray and Jeffrey Ray. Greg Ellis The following information about Greg Ellis was kindly provided by Mike Corwin: Greg Ellis Senior Special Investigator passed away on January 29th, 2009. Greg was a man of integrity and compassion.Greg loved his family and his friends with all of his heart. Greg spoke often of how he missed the people that he worked with at Camarillo State Hospital. He will be sincerely missed by all that knew & loved him. Greg's Memorial will be Thursday February 5th, 2009 at IvyLawn Cemetery in Ventura, California at 10:00 ******** Thanks also to Susan Gransee for sending this obituary for Greg Ellis: Gregory H. Ellis 1955 - 2009 Gregory H. Ellis was born in Ventura, Calif., on July 10, 1955. He passed away on Jan. 29, 2009. Greg attended Ventura High School, graduating in 1973. He enlisted in the Army and served as a Military Policeman where he guarded President Ford, four separate times, as well as being one of the first servicemen to guard Vietnam refugees relocated to the United States. After being honorably discharged from the Army, Greg was employed by Ventura County as a Corrections Officer, he then joined the Mojave County Sheriff’s Department where he served as a deputy for several years. He returned to Ventura County and worked as a private investigator before going to work for the State of California as a Senior Special Investigator for the state’s Department of Justice (Camarillo State Hospital) and Department of Consumer Affairs. Greg had a wonderful sense of humor. He enjoyed his various hobbies, old movies, and history. He was devoted to his family and friends, and loved being with people and talking about everything. He had an inquisitive and analytical mind. He was a great brother and uncle, he is greatly loved and will be deeply missed. Greg was preceded in death by his parents, Hartwell and Helen Ellis; his brother, Gary Ellis; and his nephew, Jed Temple. Greg is survived by his brother, Bill Ellis; sisters, Gail Temple and Linda Pettit; niece and nephew-in-law, Jolie and Ken Hiskett; and great nephew, Tyler Hiskett, all of Ventura. Graveside services will be held at Ivy Lawn Cemetery in Ventura at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5. Dorothy Neudorff Thanks to Susan Gransee for providing the following: Dorothy Catherman Neudorff April 13, 1923 - January 22, 2009 Dorothy Catherman Neudorff, 85, of Pennsylvania Furnace, died Thursday, Jan. 22, 2009, at Mount Nittany Medical Center, State College. Born April 13, 1923, in Dungarvin, she is the daughter of George Dewey and Elva (Hannah) Catherman. She graduated from Warriors Mark Franklin High School in 1941, St. Francis School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, in 1947, and California State University, Northridge, in 1963, where she received her B.A. degree in nursing. She was employed as a registered nurse at Veterans Administration at Coatesville, Pa., and Sepulveda, Calif. She retired from her position as nursing administrator at Camarillo State Hospital, California, in 1985. She was a member of the Warriors Mark United Methodist Church. Surviving are two brothers, Nelson Catherman and wife, Doris, of State College, Wilson Catherman and wife, Lorma, of Warriors Mark; and three nephews, Mark, Daniel and Edward. She had one son, John Lewis, Jr., who died in infancy. Memorial contributions may be made to the Warriors Mark United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 134, Warriors Mark, PA 16877 or the Warriors Mark-Franklin Volunteer Fire Company, P.O. Box 104, Warriors Mark, PA 16877. Norman Gould On December 21, 2007 Norman Gould passed away due to complications of cancer at his home in Henderson Nevada. His wife Sue was with him when he died as she had been for 36 years. Norman retired from State service after many years of State service as a Program Director at Atascadero State Hospital. Norman's story at the State and at Camarillo in particular is a unique one. He first entered CSH not as an employee or student, but as a patient. In the 1970s Camarillo housed a successful inpatient chemical dependency unit called 'The Family'. Norman was a patient on that unit in the early 70s and successfully completed treatment there. Afterward he wamted to become a mental health practitioner and entered the Psychiatric Technician Program at Cam and became a Licensed Psych Tech. He then decided to become an RN and entered the RN Program at Ventura College. In his RN class was his friend Willie Stephens. They successfully completed the RN program and by the mid-1970s were both working the PM shift on Unit 78 in Program 3A. Both Norman and Wille became Registered Nurses and would continue to work in Program 3A for some time. As the Hospital changed and units were shuffled about unit 78 became first unit 82 then settled on Unit 31 where it would remain until the closure of the Hospital. Norman became the Unit Supervisor of Unit 31 in the early 1980s then became a supervisor at CU and in the Adolescent Program. After Camarillo closed he finished his career at Atascadero and retired as a Program Director. It is unlikely that any other former patient ever rose to such a high level of responsibility at Camarillo or any of the California State Hospitals. Perhaps it was his experience as a former patient that kept him always in the mindset of ethical patient treatment being the formost responsibilty of the staff. Norman always advocated for both his staff and his patients in a calm quiet voice, but meant what he said and followed through on his commitments. He was also a great teacher and many employees benefitted immensly from his knowledge, experience and, his humor. Norman had many friends throughout his life but none were closer than his wife, Sue, and his friend Willie, who had remained Norman's best friend through all the years since they endured the RN program more than 3 decades ago. To Willie's three children he was 'Uncle Normy' and in fact, as Willie has said, he and Norman were more like brothers than friends. Norman is survived by Sue, Willie, and by so many of us to whom he meant so much over so many years. No memorial service is planned at this time. Lauri Leach Lauri Darlene (Woodill) Leach 1958 - 2008 Lauri Darlene Leach of Oxnard passed away unexpectedly surrounded by family, on July 13, 2008, in Michigan while vacationing. Lauri was born on July 7, 1958, in Stuttgart, Germany, the fifth child of six to Shirley and William R. Woodill. The daughter of an army officer, Lauri was fortunate to live in and travel to several foreign countries, finally settling in Ventura in 1969. Lauri found her calling while attending Buena High School through the High School Without Walls program. She spent numerous hours working at Camarillo State Hospital with mentally disabled patients and knew this was what she was meant to do. She was thrilled when accepted into the Psych Tech program, becoming certified in 1979 and moving on to work at Camarillo State and Atascadero hospitals. She spent the last ten years working at the Hillmont Psychiatric Center in the Ventura County Behavioral Health Department. On July 23, 1988, Lauri married the man of her dreams, Craig Allen Leach. They built a beautiful life together in their home in Oxnard. Craig and Lauri spent a great deal of time traveling, working on their home, and spending time with family and friends. Lauri's other passions included cooking, coin collecting, antiquing, collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia, doing the Sunday LA Times crossword puzzle, and playing bingo. She loved anything related to good luck – four-leaf clovers, pennies, etc. She was an avid reader of novels and would swap her books with her sisters on a regular basis. One of Lauri's biggest loves was attending Bruce Springsteen concerts, primarily with her beloved sister, Cynthia. The two would travel all over the United States, often at a moment's notice! She would see Bruce concerts at fantastic locations such as Ireland, Amsterdam, Germany, and Paris with Cynthia and her other two sisters, Sherry and Pamela. Lauri was a beloved wife, loving sister, and caring aunt to many nieces and nephews. Her inquisitive, loving and compassionate personality gave her the unique ability to befriend all that came in contact with her. Although we've lost our Lauri on earth a new star has appeared in the heavens. Lauri is preceded in death by her brother, Matthew Scott; mother, Shirley Stewart; stepfather, Bertram Stewart, and father, William R. Woodill. She leaves behind sister and brother-in-law, Sherry and John Taladay of Ventura; brother and sister-in-law, James and Patience Woodill of Missoula, Mont.; sister, Pamela Seibel of Oxnard; sister, Cynthia Wilson of Ventura; and her young loves being five nieces, four nephews, three grandnieces and two grandnephews. Bruce Bruton Bruce Bruton, 56, of Atascadero, was taken from us much too soon, Tuesday, June 17, 2008. He was doing what he loved to do - enjoying a motorcycle ride. Bruce was born in February 1952 in Greeley, Colo., the eldest of four children. The young family moved to Ventura County where Bruce spent his formative years active in baseball and marching band. After graduating from Oxnard High in 1969, he spent time traveling throughout Europe and South America, reconnecting with exchange students that had lived with his family over the years. Upon his return, he trained as a psychiatric technician, which has been his career for over 30 years at Camarillo State Hospital and most recently at Atascadero State Hospital. Bruce was thrilled to have danced at his sons' wedding just a week ago. He had been looking forward to retirement, many more motorcycle adventures, as well as more time with his beloved grandchildren. Bruce is survived by his son Todd (Amy) Bruton of Atascadero; beloved grandchildren Jade and Anthony; father, Gene Bruton of San Luis Obispo; siblings Connie (Don) Bruton-Washbish and Debbie (Bram) Anthony, also of San Luis and Eric (Natalie) Bruton of Ventura; several nieces and nephews; dear friend, Lucia Torres-Swanson of Atascadero; Todd's mother, Debbie Bruton of Oxnard; and many friends and coworkers. He was preceded in death by his mother, Violet Bruton. Michelle Roulston 11-5-07: Obituary of former CSH employee Michelle Roulston Michele Roulston The world has lost a wonderful, creative and compassionate soul as Michele Roulston passed away Oct. 18, 2007, in Porterville, Calif. In addition to a career in nursing and education, Michele devoted her life to showing her children, grandchildren and others fortunate enough to have known her, how to enjoy life, appreciate the world and smile. Michele is survived by her life partner Rosemary Paz; children, Norman Roulston III and Anne Twig of Buellton, Karl and Suzanne Roulston of Woodstock, Va., Ingrid Roulston of Porterville, Eric and Michelle Roulston of Camarillo; and former husband Norman Roulston Jr. of Lompoc. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Katherine, Sadie, Adele and Graham Roulston of Woodstock, Va., Rhiannon Roulston and Lorelei Shirbish of Porterville and Dylan and Enzo Roulston of Camarillo. Michele will continue to provide education after her passing as she has donated her body to BodyWorlds to allow the opportunity for individuals to better understand the human body and its functions. Michele's family will continue to carry her with them in their hearts. Arrangements are under the direction of Whitehurst-Peters-Loyd Funeral and Cremation Service, Porterville, Calif. Published in the Ventura County Star from 11/1/2007 - 11/4/2007. Notice • Guest Book • Flowers • Gift Shop • Charities Frank Turley 10-14-07: Obituary for former CSH Executive Director Frank Turley - Frank Turley died on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2007, at his home in Roseville, Calif., with his family by his side. He was 67 years of age. Frank was born on July 9, 1940, in South Charleston, W.Va., to Cody and Silba Turley. After graduating from high school, he was offered several college basketball and scholastic scholarships. Earning a master's in behavioral science from Kent State, he continued on to complete a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine University and a doctorate in management. In his 34-year state career, he held various positions with the California Departments of Mental Health and Developmental Services. During his tenure, he served as the executive director for Napa and Camarillo state hospitals. His charismatic leadership helped achieve a record of excellence in care. Frank was known for his devotion and compassion for those he served. Forsaking himself, he placed the needs of others first. He lived his life with unquestionable integrity, virtue and character. Attending the Oroville Evangelical Church, his lifelong belief in God guided his principles and interaction with others. His kindness was more than a philosophy in his life; it was his guiding spirit. Although his spirit has been called for a higher purpose, his wisdom and encouragement will forever linger in the hearts of those he touched. In addition to his wife, Carolyn, and his son, Jeff, he is survived by his sister, Carolyn Clark, of Vienna, Va., and his brother, Richard Turley, of Louisville, Ky. A celebration of life will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Radisson Hotel, 500 Leisure Lane, Sacramento, CA 95815
Ron Lopez 10-14-07: Below is obituary for long time CSH employee Ron Lopez.
1941 - 2007
Ronald "Grandpa" Lopez passed away with his family by his side, on Oct. 8, 2007, at St. John's Regional Medical Center. He was born on Oct. 19, 1941, in Oxnard. He was a lifelong resident of Ventura County. Ron recently retired in December 2006 from a 46-year career working as a registered nurse for the State of California. He worked 36 years at Camarillo State Hospital until it closed. He transferred to Norwalk and completed his nursing at Metropolitan State Hospital. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather and enjoyed spending time with his children and granddaughters. Some of the things he enjoyed were taking motorhome camping trips and watching his granddaughters at their sporting games. He loved taking pictures at all the events for his family. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph M. Lopez, in 1981, and mother, Rose M. (Burdullis) Lopez, in 2000. Ron is dearly loved by family and friends. He will continue to live, love and laugh in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Published in the Ventura County Star on 10/13/2007.

Elliot Maynard Brener, PhD April 6, 1943 to September 2, 2007 Elliot passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, September 2, 2007 after a long illness. He was preceded in death by his father, Roy Brener. He is survived by his mother, Golda; wife Barbara; his beloved children, Steven and Susan; brother, David (Amy); nieces, Michelle and Ilana, and many relatives and friends. Elliot loved and lived life to the fullest He was born in Chicago, IL, attended Harvard University and Boston University where he received his PhD in Psychology. He always hated cold weather, so he migrated to sunny California, and dedicated his life to treating adults with severe mental illnesses. He was an avid photographer, diver, hiker, reader, traveler, and lover of classical music and dixieland. The biggest joy in his life however, were his children, Steven and Susan. He was a great dad, and the loss of his presence in their lives is devastating. He retired in 2003, and it had always been his wish to move to Tucson. He loved the desert and the mountains, so this will be his final resting place. He was a unique person who touched many lives, and he will be missed greatly.

Neva Nickerson 1941 - 2007

Neva Nickerson, resident of Sierra Hills in Porterville, died on June 3rd. She was born in Bakersfield, California in 1941 to Everett (Ray) and Hazel Laughlin. She was the oldest sibling to five children who prepared her to be a “Mother Hen” to many throughout her lifetime.
Her family moved to Ventura County when she was in high school.
She was loving sister to Norma and Mary, both preceded her in death; and brothers, Robert and Walter, who are alive and well in Oklahoma.
She was married to William Nickerson for 33 years who had children of his own. Although they did not have children together, Neva spent her whole life adopting children and adults, including nephews and nieces, who needed her. Through one of William’s children, she was blessed to have a beloved granddaughter, Leanna,who was her pride and joy until her death.
Above all, her love for Christ meant everything to her followed by her love for her family and many, many friends. She was a strong personality who advocated for the poor and had compassion for people in need. She knew that the most important thing in life was to do God’s will and love others.
She was truly a person who would give you the shirt off her back. She loved to sing gospel music and blessed many through the gift of her voice. She loved the Gaither’s vocal band, CDs and tapes.
Neva worked the bulk of her life, 33 years, caring for the mentally and developmentally disabled as a Psychiatric Technician and Supervisor at Camarillo State Hospital.
After retirement, the loss of her husband and declining health, she moved to Porterville; nearly 6 years ago, to be close to her nephew, David Walker and his family.
She chose to became Grandma to David’s children, Matthew and Melissa in place of her sister Norma who had passed away before the kids were born.
She spent the last years of her life loving David and his family and reaching out to others at her Sierra Hills residence in song and card ministry; she took care of birthday, anniversary, get well and sympathy cards for the facility.
Lastly, she led her own group on Fridays called “The Circle of Friends”.
She will be missed by all of her family and her huge circle of friends.

Virgie L. Yates passed away early Sunday, May 20, 2007, with his family at his side after an 11-year battle with cancer.

Virgie was born May 9, 1929, in Keytesville, Mo., where he went to school in a one-room schoolhouse. In 1947, at the age of 18, Virgie came to California, where he met his wife of 57 years, Kay. For 45 years, he worked at Camarillo State Hospital, where he became director of vocational services. He also worked in the evening for Oxnard Ambulance for 15 years. Virgie and Kay enjoyed playing Santa and Mrs. Claus for the children of Oxnard School District for many years. He enjoyed getting involved with the community such as volunteering for the Strawberry Festival and being president of his neighborhood council. He was also involved in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts while his sons grew up. Virgie was a family man. He loved his family. They were very important to him.

He is survived by his wife, Kay of Oxnard; sons, Butch and Jeff (wife Sharon) of Oxnard; daughter, Pam Chezum (husband Tim) of Somis; sister, Elwanda Huddle of Keytesville, Mo.; granddaughters, Janel Buchanan of Georgia, Julie Jackson of Fresno and Lisa Yates of Tennessee; grandsons, John Bradford (wife Christina of Oxnard, Timmy Chezum of Somis; great-grandchildren, Destany Jackson, Lucas and Makela Bradford; and many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Goldie Yates; father- and mother-in-law, Orville and Mayme Hurt; and grandson Rusty Yates Chezum.