Mavis Renfro

Mavis P. Renfro, born November 16, 1919 in Richland Missouri passed away peacefully on November 20, 2015, at her daughter’s home in Toquerville, Utah at the age of 96 years.

Mavis was born to Molly Manuel (Davenport ) and Gary Hobart Manuel, both of who succumbed to the Spanish Influenza when Mavis was just three months old.  She then went to live with her Great Aunt and Uncle; Idella and William Warren along with their five children. Mavis had two older, biological twin sisters, Irene Manuel (McClure) and Florene Manuel (Cavatairo). Both sisters preceded her in death.Mavis was raised on a farm in Richland, Missouri.  She was an ole’ farm girl and she was happiest in a warm sunshine filled garden; whether it was a vegetable or a flower garden, she loved having her hands in the soil.  She enjoyed canning, crocheting, baking, cooking, and raising chickens wherever she lived.  She also loved traveling and  those who knew her well, called her a “gypsy at heart.”  Mavis was the most giving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend anyone could ask for.  When you smelled something good baking in her home, you were going home with some of it!  If you liked a flower or plant she had, she would give you part or all of it to grow in your own home or garden.  Mavis  loved to send you home with something in your hand and more importantly a fond memory in your heart.

Mavis graduated Richland High School and soon after married her first husband, Clarence M Reed (deceased).  They had one son together and then later divorced.  Some years later she married her second husband, Henry J Schweinbold (deceased).  They had 12 children together (4 preceded her in death and 8 are living). They later divorced. Mavis married her third husband, Newton E Renfro, who preceded her in death.

Mavis is survived by her nine children; Gary Reed of Pacific, Missouri; Henry J. (Hank) Schweinbold II (Rhonda) of Jacksonville, Florida; Beverly Elder (Gene) of Normal, Illinois; George (Mike) Schweinbold (Carolyn) of Saint Peters, Missouri; Patricia Wulfert (Richard) of Farmington, New Mexico; Peggy McKinney (Ron) of Toquerville, Utah; Charles A (Tony) Schweinbold of Toquerville, Utah; Rebecca Dameron (Mark) of Clever, Missouri and Pamela Gleason of Washington, Utah.  She is also survived by 29 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

We would like to thank all of Mavis’ (mom’s) family and friends who shared in her life's journey and created many great memories.We would like to also extend our gratitude to Christie at IHC Hospice Services for caring for our mother in her last days.  Mavis’ cremation has taken place.  Her “Celebration of Life” memorial to follow in the spring 2016.