CULLMAN —

Marvin Avery Lake

Marvin Avery Lake died peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2013, at the age of 95.

Born on May 27, 1917 to Sarah Lucinda (Reese) Lake and John William Lake, he was the youngest of six children. He is survived by three daughters and two sons-in-law: Linda Little Jordan, Brenda Mobley (Sammy) and Patricia Grant (Perry); five grandchildren and their spouses: Jeffrey Little, Janna Brock (Bruce), Brian Mobley (Michelle), Peyton Grant, and Paige Ellen Grant; one great-grandson, Seth Brock; and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by Flora Ellen Bullard Lake, his wife of 59 years. He is also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Clyde, Benjamin and James Lake; sisters, Ruth Spivey and Lula Jones; and sons-in-law, Bobby Little and Harvey Jordan. 

Serving on many civic and community boards over the years, his businesses, education, and life were founded in Cullman and Cullman County. He was happiest with and near his family and friends, and always welcomed them to his home. As a boy he enjoyed exploring the scenic beauty of the woods and creeks where his family was among the first to settle his native community of Dripping Springs-West Point. An accomplished athlete in his younger days, he enjoyed several sports in many capacities all of his life. His inquisitive nature always prompted him to take an interest in the latest gadget and current technology, as well as the advancements he witnessed in an ever-changing world. An avid music lover of many genres, but was known in his family for his love of old hymns and the music of his youth during the Depression era. His family was among the founding members of the Liberty Methodist Church, where he spent his early years worshipping, and as an adult was a long-time member of the Bethlehem West Baptist church. 

The family wishes to acknowledge, with deep thanks and appreciation, the medical and nursing staff at the Summerford Nursing Home and the Cullman Regional Medical Center. Their special attention and compassionate care has been both a comfort and a reassurance that he was in the best possible environment these past few years.     

Visitation and memorial service will be held Friday, Feb. 15, at Bethlehem West Baptist Church, (Highway 157 West of Cullman). Visitation for the family will be at 1 p.m. with open visitation at 1:30. The memorial service will be at 3 p.m. and interment immediately following at the historic Cross Roads Cemetery.

Any memorial gifts may be designated to the Bethlehem West Baptist Church, or to the Cross Roads Cemetery Trustees Commission, or to the charity of your choice.