Kevin Severance

Kevin McIver Severance, 50, of Tucumcari died January 1, 2010 in Clayton, NM from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Kevin was born in Columbia, SC on July 23, 1959, the son of John McIver Severance and the late Annis Tisdale Severance. He was a graduate of Dreher High School where he was a member of the chess club, science club, national forensic league, national honor society, and who’s who of America. Kevin went to the University of SC where he earned Bachelors and Master Degrees of Science in Physics and Geology. For many years he had been a geologist with his company, Roadrunner Logging Company working on wells throughout the mid and southwestern United States. More recently, he was teaching math and science at Tucumcari High School, where he instilled his love of learning in his community. He was a founding member of Divine Connection Church in Tucumcari, NM. Kevin was an avid chess player and also enjoyed gardening, fishing, spending time with family in SC at the beach, and eating shrimp. Most important to Kevin was that he had found his family and home in Tucumcari, with his wife Fidelia, their children and grand kids. Kevin was a loving and generous husband, father, and grandfather. Kevin had a big heart and helped so many with his generous spirit. He was deeply loved by all who knew him for his contagious smile and laugh, witty sense of humor, and his love of life. Kevin is survived by his wife, Fidelia Severance of Tucumcari, NM, a daughter, Carmelita Salas & Gilbert of Farmington NM, Grandchildren Aztec, Jaden, Kyra, and Emery; a son Anthony Groomas of Tucumcari; his father John McIver Severance of Irmo, SC; a sister Mrs. Karen Severance Powell (Bradley E. Powell) of Mt. Pleasant, SC; a brother Keith M. Severance (Charlotte Silva) and nephew Spencer Severance of Boise ID; Sisters-in-law Eloise McIntyre and Roxanna (Richard) Rust; Nephews Richard (Mary Ann) McIntyre, Lorenzo (Pam & Kenny) Emillio, and Christian Lucero; Niece Angela Lukesh (& children Maria Delores, & Gilbert Marquez) and four Aunts, an Uncle, and many cousins. Memorials may be made to Divine Connection Church, 310 E. Route 66 Blvd Tucumcari, NM. 88401. His memorial service, officiated by Pastor Fred Caton was held at Divine Connection Church and attended by family, friends, students and faculty of Tucumcari High. Kevin was laid to rest in Montoya New Mexico beside Historic Route 66. Arrangements were under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 923 S. Third Street, Santa Rosa, NM (575) 472-3369. To sign the online guest book or leave a note of condolences for the family, please visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the family at Divine Connection Church and to the students and faculty of Tucumcari High for their kind farewell to Kevin.