Olivia Henrietta Ladson

Olivia Henrietta Ladson was born on June 12, 1928, in Hondo, Texas, to the late Alvis and Lovie White. She was the third of eight children born to this loving family.

At an early age, Olivia moved to San Antonio, Texas, where she attended and graduated from Phyllis Wheatley High School, Class of 1946. She continued her education at Prairie View A&M University, where she earned a full basketball scholarship—an early reflection of her talent, determination, and strong spirit. She later attended St. Philip’s College and graduated in 1978. She also attended Southwest Texas State University from 1980 to 1981.

On March 23, 1957, Olivia was united in marriage to Charles C.L. Ladson. Their union was blessed with three daughters, whom they lovingly raised together.

Olivia accepted Christ at an early age. She and her husband joined St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, where they worshiped faithfully together. After the passing of her husband, she joined Now Word Covenant Church in 2001, where she continued to attend until her passing.

Throughout her lifetime, Olivia embraced many roles and careers. She served as a housemaid for several families, including the Gross and McAllister families, worked as a substitute teacher, and alongside her husband owned and operated Ladson Catering. They also owned and operated C.L. Janitorial Service. Of all the work she did, her greatest joy was serving as an usher for the San Antonio Spurs, previously known as the Dallas Chaparrals, for 59 years, where she became one of the organization’s longest-working employees. She was deeply admired and loved by her guests, her Spurs family, and everyone who came through her doorway adored and respected her warm spirit.

Olivia was known for her independence, energy, and determination. She remained active throughout her life, often walking or catching the bus wherever she needed to go, determined to remain on the move until her final day.

Her number one passion was bowling. Olivia enjoyed an extraordinary bowling career that spanned more than 75 years. She earned numerous awards and accolades through the years, leaving a legacy of excellence in the sport she loved so dearly.

Olivia Henrietta Ladson’s life was a testament to perseverance, hard work, faith, and joy. She will be remembered for her strength, dedication to family, love of sports, and the lasting impact she made on everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles C.L. Ladson; her parents, Alvis and Lovie White; her siblings, Zelma, Mary, Alvis Jr., Travis, Deloris, and Doris Ann; and her grandson, Rashad.

Olivia leaves to cherish her memory one sibling, Gwendolyn; three daughters: Valerie, Tammy, and Cassandra; and one adopted daughter, Karen. She is also survived by five grandchildren: LaToya, Ryan (Rosanna), Emani (Jarvis), Richard (Cassandra), and Tamia; ten great-grandchildren: Anjolina, Samiya, Alyssa, Ava, Khazire, Zaria, Azalea, Itali, Jireh, and Khyren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and many adoptive children and grandchildren she loved along the way.