Alvina Raven

Alvina Raven, 99, of Ridgeland, SC and Sherman, NY, passed away Saturday, May 18, 2024 at her home with her family by her side.

Alvina was born January 27, 1925 in Mayville, NY to the late Ruben Fox and Sadie Briggs Fox. She was a high school graduate of Chautauqua High School. Alvina married James “Jim” D. Raven in 1943, a Combat Pilot in the U.S. Air Force, and moved to Dodge City, KS, where Jim was stationed. They eventually returned to Sherman, NY, where they raised their four sons, James “Jimmy” Raven, Jr., Frederick Raven, Richard Raven, and Brian Raven. Alvina worked as a caretaker for the elderly for many years and shared her colorful, knitted dish cloths with friends and neighbors in both Sherman, NY and Ridgeland, SC. She spent a great deal of time with her family at Camp, where they would fish, play games, and share meals around the fire. She attended Sherman Community Church with family and life-long friends. When spending her winters with her family in Ridgeland, she attended St. Paul United Methodist Church. It was there she created many lasting friendships while serving her Lord and Savior.

Alvina loved playing cards with her family and could often be found at the kitchen table, playing Up-Down, Solitaire, or Three-Thirteen. At home, she spent time reading scripture, which was important in her relationship with the Lord. She also enjoyed puzzles, putting together nature scenes that consisted of 100s of pieces. She was affectionately known by her grandchildren as “Sweetie.”

Alvina is survived by her sons, James Raven, Jr. (Diana) of Sherman, NY, Frederick Raven (Nanci) of Ridgeland, SC, Richard Raven of Ridgeland, SC, and Brian Raven of Sherman, NY; sisters, Audrey Buchannan and Beatrice Gee; grandchildren, Alicia Crosby (Tracy), Dawn Fowler (William), Kaitlyn Raven, David Raven, and Amy Swan; great-grandchildren, Jordan Tuten (Jeremy), Amber Dantzler, Ally Brown, and Abaigail Kidwell; step-great-grandchildren, Kathryn Stoner (Blake) and Wyatt Crosby; and great-great-grandchild, Jack Tuten. She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years.

Alvina’s family would like to thank Carol Davis and Donna Justice, who both helped care for Alvina during her last years. She loved you both very much.