Lavenia Medeiros was born on October 17, 1950, in San Francisco, Calif., to her devoted parents, the late Raymond R. Medeiros and Rosanna M. Medeiros.
Lavenia is survived by her life partner of 27 years, Robert Trainor; her three adult children, Rhonda Roberts, Russell Goodwin and Jim Goodwin; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces and nephews.
She was a beloved sister to Melody Minardi, Ramona Waters, Mary Means, Roland Medeiros, John Medeiros, Valerie Medeiros and Lillian Medeiros, and she was preceded in death by her sister Diana Lacerda.
She brought warmth, light and a vibrant spirit to everyone who knew her throughout her life’s journey from the West Coast to New England. Lavenia graduated from Smith College with a degree in English literature, nurturing a lifelong passion for reading, learning and the written word. For the past 15 years, she faithfully served her community as a local crossing guard at Flynn Elementary School, where her bright smile and caring presence welcomed and protected countless children each day.
Lavenia shared her love of life in many ways with all who knew her. She was an extraordinary gourmet cook and a remarkably talented artist. The paintings and heartfelt greeting cards she lovingly created and gifted to family and friends will forever be cherished and adored by all who loved her.
The family is planning a celebration of life to be held in the near future.
This article appears in June 17 • 2026.