Lavelle J. Essex, 86, passed away Saturday, December 21, 2019 at her home in Fort Wayne surrounded by her family. She was born in Indianapolis, IN to the late James Stearns and Leona Krieg. Lavelle worked 36 years for GTE as a telephone operator. She was an active member of Fort Wayne Metaphysical Chapel and the South Side High School Alumni Association. Lavelle is survived by her children, Pamela Gates of Merrillville, IN, Donald Essex of Fort Wayne, and Glenna Essex of Fort Wayne; 4 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Glenn E. Essex; second husband, Jack Disler; daughter, Diana Essex; and brother, Donald Stearns. Service is 2:00 pm, Sunday, December 29, 2019 at Fairhaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N. Clinton St., with calling 2 hours prior beginning at 12:00 pm. Memorials may be made to the Fort Wayne Metaphysical Chapel. To sign the online guestbook, go to www.fairhavenfortwayne.com