Nita Lavielle

Nita Lavielle, beloved teacher and counselor, 73, of Baldwin City, KS, passed away at home on July 22nd. Born on May 5, 1951, in Russell, KS, to Keith and Norma Balding, Nita spent her life dedicated to nurturing and guiding young minds.

Nita is survived by her daughter Serina Heikes (MO) and her beloved pug, Wiley. She leaves behind her siblings Larry Balding (TX), Linda Loffswold (KS), John Balding (OK), and Wendy Riley (KS); nieces Kylie Berkenmeier (KS), Jessica Heikes (MO), and Ean Nicaise (KS); and nephews Derek Heikes (KS) and Marcus Rorabaugh (KS). She was preceded in death by her parents, Norma and Keith. 

Nita began her distinguished teaching career at Felten Middle School in Hays, KS, before moving to Oberlin, where she served as a high school guidance counselor and later a junior high English teacher. Throughout her career, Nita was a beacon of support for countless students, especially those who struggled to fit in. She was devoted to inspiring creativity and providing comfort to lost souls.  

Nita was renowned for her beautifully handwritten thank-you cards, her delicious Bermuda biscuits, and her passion for antique treasures, KU Basketball, and the ocean. She was fiercely authentic, loved with all her heart, and was admired for her kindness and generous spirit. Her daughter fondly remembers her as the best mother in the world, whose nurturing spirit made the world a better place. 

A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 29th, at 3 PM in the Chapel at Muehlebach Funeral Care, with visitation from 2 to 3 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to A Tree To Remember in Nita's memory. 

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Baldwin City Police Department and EMS team for their care and compassion.