LaVell

LaVell is a given name and surname that is most commonly found in the United States, where it is most frequently encountered among African-American communities. The name is sometimes considered a variant spelling of the French surname Lavelle or Lavall, which is derived from the Old French “la vallee” meaning “the valley.” The use of the capitalized “V” in the middle of the spelling is a characteristic found in American naming practices that emphasize unique personal identity.

Although the surname LaVell has modest origins in French toponymy, its recorded use in English‑speaking countries dates back to the 19th century. Early United States immigration records show individuals bearing the name in regions such as New York, Texas and Mississippi. In the 20th century, the name was adopted as a first name, especially among parents seeking distinctive and phonetically friendly options without the long form of Lavelle.

Prominent figures who share the name include LaVell Edwards, former head football coach at Brigham Young University whose tenure from 1972 to 2003 was marked by national championships and a record 71 victories in the first seven games of a season; and LaVell Johnson, a professional basketball guard who played in the NBA during the 1980s. Academics such as Dr. Claudia LaVell, a noted anthropologist and professor of African American studies, have also contributed to the visibility of the name in scholarly circles.

The name remains in use today, both as a personal name and as a family surname, though it has not risen to high frequency within the broader U.S. population. Its meanings and associations continue to reflect a blend of European linguistic heritage and contemporary American naming creativity.