Bernice Averett

Bernice Vicknair Averett of Livingston, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, at the age of 86. Bernice was born January 6, 1940, in Bayou Barbary, Louisiana. She was a lifelong resident of the Bayou Barbary and Colyell communities. Bernice loved dining out, traveling, shopping, spending time with her family and friends, but most of all, she loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is because of His death and resurrection that we are comforted knowing she is rejoicing with her Savior and reunited with many loved ones and friends.

Bernice was a faithful wife of 52 years to her husband, L.T. Averett, and a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend who found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. She could often be found in her kitchen, enjoying a meal of boiled seafood or making her special potato salad. Bernice was always up for an adventure and was always on the go, no matter the time of day. Despite this, she always found time to read her Bible and pray. She was a faithful prayer warrior for her friends and family and was always eager to support anyone in their time of need. Bernice loved being in church and attended faithfully throughout her lifetime. She was the pillar of her family and will be greatly missed by all those who knew her.

Bernice is survived by her son, Kevin Averett; daughter and son-in-law, Tonya Averett Newsom and Jeff Newsom; and her granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Régan Amelia Newsom Rawls and Connor Rawls. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, John Dale Vicknair and Terri Vicknair, and honorary grandson, Seth Simon, along with many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Bernice loved all her family, but especially cherished her role as “Gran” to Régan.

Bernice is preceded in death by her husband, Levi (L.T.) Averett; parents, Lester and Amelia Vicknair; and brother and sister-in-law, Norman and Carolyn Vicknair. 

Services for Bernice Vicknair Averett will be held Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Colyell Baptist Church, Livingston, Louisiana. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m, with funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m., conducted by her pastor, Bro. Evan Griffin, assisted by Bro. Craig Forque and Major Bill Pianki. Pallbearers will be Lane Averett, Wayne Averett, Jimmy Beregi, Connor Rawls, Mitchel Vicknair, and Billy Whittington. Burial will follow at Colyell Baptist Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Our Lady of the Lake Neuro ICU and The Crossing Hospice for their care of Bernice and the love shown to the family during her brief illness. Additionally, the family extends their sincere thanks to the congregations of Colyell Baptist Church, Oak View Baptist Church, and Pine Grove Baptist for their assistance in Bernice’s final services. Though our hearts are broken, we rest in the promise of that glad reunion day in Heaven!

“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”Colossians 3:1-2 KJV