Obituary of LaVerne J. Carlin

LaVerne J. Carlin, 95, of Millstone Township, passed away peacefully on August 2nd, 2022. Ms. Carlin was born in Johnston, Pennsylvania and went on to reside in both Cranford and Randolph Townships before moving to Millstone. LaVerne began her dance career at Gene Kelly’s school of dance under the instruction of Gene Kelly himself. Then, after graduating high school, LaVerne left Johnstown and headed to New York City to explore new dance opportunities. With the help of Gene Kelly’s wife, LaVerne was hired to perform on tour with the Roxy Theater and Marikna. After her time on the road, Ms. Carlin accepted a coveted spot as a New York City Rockette at Radio City Music Hall, where she danced from 1946 to 1951. Her love of dance could only be rivaled by her love for her family. She was predeceased by a son-in-law, Richard C. Newkirk. Surviving are three daughters, Deborah Gregg and husband Robert, Theresa Bogdany and husband Joseph, and Katherine Newkirk; a son Edward Joseph Carlin III and wife Renee; and five grandchildren, Matthew Gregg, Paige Carlin, Megan Newkirk, Joseph Bogdany and Edward Carlin. The viewing will be held at the Higgins Memorial Home, 20 Center Street, Freehold on Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. Interment will be held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Johnstown, PA on Monday 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to an animal rescue organization of your choosing.