LaVerne S. Root

LaVerne S. Root, 93, of Lititz, formerly of Manheim, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Landis Homes with her family by her side. She was the loving wife of the late J. Clyde Root, with whom she shared 64 years of marriage at the time of his passing in 2016.

Born in Manheim, she was the daughter of the late John K. and Katie (Horst) Shenk.

LaVerne devoted her life to parenting and homemaking, as well as working for a number of years as a licensed practical nurse. She was an active member of East Petersburg Mennonite Church, serving in various roles, and actively participating in the sewing circle. LaVerne also served on the board of No Longer Alone Ministries, she volunteered for Compeer Lancaster, and she was a member of the auxiliary of the local Gideon’s International.

She is survived by her children, Douglas C. (Barbara) Root, of Harrisonburg, VA, David K. (Marcia) Root, Dawn M. (Larry J.) Zook, Dale E. Root, and Dwight L. (Mardelle) Root, all of Manheim; 9 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren (with the 16th on the way). She is also survived by a brother, Donald (Cindy) Shenk, of Texas, and a sister, Geri Heisey, of Washington State. In addition to her husband and her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, John Shenk.

All are invited to attend a Celebration of LaVerne’s Life at 11 AM on Saturday, March 14, at Landis Homes West Bethany Chapel, 1001 East Oregon Road, Lititz, PA 17543, with a time to visit with the family from 10 AM until the time of service. To view the service via livestream, please visit https://www.youtube.com/landishomes.

As per LaVerne’s wishes, upon her death she chose to participate in the Humanity Gifts Registry Program. Interment will be private in East Petersburg Mennonite Cemetery.

The Root family is thankful for the compassionate care provided by the Landis Homes team and Hospice and Community Care over the last year.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in LaVerne’s memory to the Caring Fund of Landis Homes, 1001 East Oregon Road, Lititz, PA 17543, online at www.landishomes.org/give/fund-designations.