LaVerne (Bowen) Austin, age 87, passed away at the Jordan Hospital on February 23, 2011. She was the wife of the late Forrest A. Austin and sister of John B. Bowen, Regis B. Bowen and the late James D. Bowen. Also survived by 15 nieces and nephews. She was born in Pittsburgh, PA, the daughter of the late James A. and Margaret M. (Bert) Bowen. LaVerne had previously lived in Quincy, Norwell and Carver. She attended St. Elizabeth's School of Nursing in Boston and was very family oriented. She always enjoyed spending time and celebrating holidays with her family. She loved driving and trips to Maine. A Funeral Mass for LaVerne will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2011, at St. Helen's Church, Rte. 53, Norwell, at 10:30 A.M. Visiting hours are omitted. Burial will be in Blue Hill Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 311 Arsenal St., Watertown, MA 02472.