Verna (Powell) Briney, 62, Passes Away

Memorial services to be held for longtime Allsups employee and devoted mother

Mar. 22, 2026 at 1:52am

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Verna (Powell) Briney, a 62-year-old resident of Abilene, Texas, passed away on March 10, 2026. Briney was a graduate of Elida High School, where she was active in sports, and later worked for many years at the Allsups convenience store chain. She is survived by her husband Shayne, two sons, a granddaughter, three step-grandchildren, and other family members.

Why it matters

Briney's passing marks the loss of a long-time community member and dedicated employee who was active in supporting her family and local businesses. Her obituary highlights the importance of close-knit families and the role that local employers can play in the lives of residents.

The details

Briney was born on October 9, 1963 in Snyder, Texas to Vernell (Gilmore) and Clayton Powell. After graduating high school, she spent her early adulthood as a homemaker raising her children. Briney later worked at Allsups for many years and was also employed at a local bank and as a bus driver for Portales Schools. On July 17, 2007, she married Shayne Briney, and the couple lived in Abilene, Texas.

  • Verna (Powell) Briney was born on October 9, 1963.
  • Briney passed away on March 10, 2026 at the age of 62.
  • Memorial services for Briney will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 at 10:00 AM.

The players

Verna (Powell) Briney

A 62-year-old resident of Abilene, Texas who passed away on March 10, 2026. Briney was a graduate of Elida High School and worked for many years at the Allsups convenience store chain.

Shayne Briney

Verna Briney's husband, with whom she lived in Abilene, Texas.

Kelby Widener

One of Verna Briney's two sons.

Caleb Widener

One of Verna Briney's two sons, who is married to Braden.

Reese Widener

Verna Briney's granddaughter.

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What they’re saying

“Memorial services for Verna (Powell) Briney, 62, will be held at 10:00 AM, Fri., Mar. 27, 2026 in the Wheeler Mortuary Chapel, with Michael Terry officiating.”

— Michael Terry, Officiant

The takeaway

Verna Briney's life and passing highlight the importance of close-knit families, community involvement, and long-term employment in local businesses - all of which contribute to the fabric of small-town life.