Search by Name

Search by Name

John Osborne Obituary

John Thomas (Johnny) Osborne, 56, of Daleville, Va., went to be with the Lord surrounded by the love and support of his family and friends on Sunday, February 1, 2009, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Leona Osborne; and his sister, Fonnie Zuckerman. He is survived by his best friend of 52 years and loving wife of 37 years, Sonia Coleman Osborne; daughter and son-in-law, Salena and Josh Harvey; son and daughter-in-law, Sean and Rachel Osborne; grandchildren, Coleman, Weston, and Jocelyn Osborne, Bryson and Bria Harvey; father-in-law, Sonia Coleman; brother, Randy Osborne; sisters, Theda (Jerry) Morrison and Christie (Dave) Peery; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Selma and Bob Sweeney. Special and devoted friends include Paul and Martha Monaghan, Rodney and Mary Catherine Layman and Richard and Sandy Pauley. John will be remembered as a loving husband, father and proud papa. He was an avid sports fan and played a variety of sports. He was a teacher and coach for one year before beginning his career in insurance. He spent the last 30 years as a Nationwide agent before retiring in January 2009. He volunteered his time in many ways, including coaching and assisting with the Fincastle Fall Run. His wonderful sense of humor, caring ways and zest for life will be sadly missed by all who knew him. A celebration of John's life will be held 1 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2009, at St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Daleville with the Rev. Dave Rochford officiating. Interment will follow at Godwin Cemetery in Fincastle. The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 5 at St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Daleville. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 9 East Church Ave., Roanoke, Va. 24011 or to St. Mark's United Methodist Church, 19 Cedar Ridge Dr., Daleville, Va. 24083. Arrangements Rader Funeral Home, Daleville, Va.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Roanoke Times from Feb. 3 to Feb. 4, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for John Osborne

Not sure what to say?





Karen Walls

November 26, 2010

In loving memory of John Thomas Osborne.
Johnny, you will always be a memory I will hold close to my heart.
My sincere condolences to the Osborne family.

Gloria Cousser

March 10, 2009

RIP John, you was a very nice insurance agent.....

Martha and Paul Monaghan

March 3, 2009

Paul and I really feel as if we have lost our brother. We loved Johnny as much as if he was our real brother. He was part of our family. We will always cherish all the memories of him. Our families shared so many good times, and we truly feel blessed to have had him in our lives.
Our most special memories will be of the times we spent at the beach with Sonia and him. We had so much fun laughing and talking about our lives together. We knew we were so lucky to have such wonderful, close friends in our lives.
We will also remember the times we stayed in cabins in Pigeon Forge, and resorts in Williamsburg, condos at Disney World, and cruises in the Bahamas, and of course, cool evenings in the hot tub under the stars. So many wonderful times were spent with these people we love.
We will never forget our brother, and as we go on making great memories with his family, we feel that he will always be right there with us. He lives forever in our hearts.

ROBIN LYNN

March 3, 2009

JOHN WAS MY INSURANCE AGENTS FOR 10 YRS OR MORE HE WOULD COME AND EAT AT JOHNNYS TAVERN MANY YEARS AGO WHEN I MET HIM HE WAS SUCH A NICE MAN THAT I HAD MY BROTHER SIGN UP FOR INSURANCE WITH HIM... EVEN AFTER YEARS OF BEING WITH NATIOWIDE I WOULD STILL CALL HIM TO ANSWER QUESTIONS ABOUT OTER INSURANCE COMPANIES. HE WAS A GOOD MAN AND MY HEART GOES OUT TO HIS FAMILY WHICH IM SURE IS GREAT BECAUSE HE WAS.. HE WILL BE SURELY MISSED BUT HE IS NOW IN HEAVEN AND NOW WE HAVE ANOTHER ANGEL WATCHING OVER US ALL...

Ginger Layman

March 2, 2009

Sonia, Salena, Josh, Sean, and Rachel -

You know Johnny was like a second Dad to me growing up. I have so many memories that I could never mention them all here but want to share a few.

I remember our many summer vacations and getting there in the mini van. I loved hearing Mr. and Mrs. O play the oldies game in the car. Salena and I have many fond memories of the John Deere. Of course, we were helping him out but it was only for the tan. Salena and I also loved when he gave us rides in the convertible and then eventually when we were old enough to take it for a spin. I knew he was my second Dad when he treated me like Salena even when it came to punishments. In the later years, I had to always make a stop by the Osborne house when I was in town, even if it was for a quick visit. Also, I am thankful for the time that Mom and Dad got to spend with both Johnny and Sonia after moving back to Botetourt. How great that Johnny finally got that trip to Alaska that he had always wanted to take.

I will miss his jokes, laughter, and of course our occasional discussion of the insurance industry since nobody else wanted to discuss that topic.

We all will miss him dearly. As you move forward, continue to cherish his memories and remind the grandchildren of how much he loved them. You will always have the lasting memory of the whole family together in the beach picture you all have displayed. With love and sympathy...

Debbie (Shelton) Anderson

February 13, 2009

Dear sweet Sonia,
Freddie called me to tell me about Johnny. (Dad had told him)

Although we have all gone in many directions, it is always wonderful to hear about someone from home.

This news is sad. I didn't know he was so sick. I am sorry for you/your precious family.

I can still hear your laugh and see Johnny just smiling! You two were so fun and full of life. Not to mention he was the athlete! Many fond memories! Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Loving thoughts,

Charlie Lambert

February 8, 2009

Sonia, please accept my deepest sympathy. Johnny was one of those remarkable classmates you could never forget . My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

Cherie Brown

February 7, 2009

Salena and family, Sorry to hear about your loss. Remember you can find strength in the Lord during this time. Please let me know if you need anything.

Cherie Brown

Brenda Horne Rash

February 7, 2009

Dear Sonia Jean, Donnie and I only learned on Johnny's passing today and we both want you to know that we are very sorry to hear of your loss. Over the years, when we talk of our growing up years around Bradshaw and Iaeger, you and Johnny have always been there. Coach McNew has always spoken so very highly of Johnny when he coached him in 1968 playing football! He was the BEST. We want you to know that our thoughts and prayers and happy memories are with you and your entire family. We love you.

Barbara Odle

February 6, 2009

Sonia Jean,
There are no words to comfort you but I share your sorrow in the loss of a true friend and extend my sympathy to you and the family.
I also share memories of the good times that Johnny and Bradshaw were for me. He was a caring person you could depend on. I can not recall him saying a negitive about anyone.
He will be missed, he was loved and memories will last forever.
Barbara Davis Odle

ETTA HUNT

February 5, 2009

Sonia I JUST FOUND OUT ABOUT JOHN TODAY. IT WAS SUCH A SHOCK.MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.YOU HAVE BEEN SUCH A GOOD FRIEND FOR SO MANY YEARS.IF THERE IS ANYTHING I CAN DO PLEASE LET ME KNOW.YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY PRAYERS. ETTA

Randy Payne

February 5, 2009

Sonia Jean & Family, Sorry to hear the passing of Johnny. We never seem to be prepared even knowing what might happen ahead of us. I know you'll find the strength to go forward as you know that's what Johnny would want . Take care and may God bless you and your family. Your Cuz, Randy Payne

Judy,Jerry,John,Jack, and Berkeley Wolford

February 5, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are sent to Mrs. Osborne , Salena, Josh,Bryson , Bria and the entire Osborne family.. May the good Lord hold you in his hands and be with you at this time.

Karen Wade

February 5, 2009

Dear Sonia, Salena, Sean and families,
So sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless you.
Love, Karen and Mitch Wade

Christina Hoye

February 5, 2009

Sonia, Selena and family,
We are so sorry to hear about John. Please know that you are in our thoughts. Sonia, please call should you need anything at all. We are just a house away.
Love and Prayers,
The Hoyes
Jim, Chris, Olivia and Mary

Gwen Keiley

February 5, 2009

Dear Osborne Family:
I am so very sorry for your loss. I was working at Nationwide when John first became an agent some 30 years ago. He worked in our office until he moved out on his own. I saw him periodically through the years when he would visit the office or come for meetings there. He would always show me pictures of Salena and Sean and brag on them as they grew up. He was so proud of his family. John was a fine man and I will always have fond memories of him. I know how much he will be missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Sam & Sheila Clements

February 5, 2009

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Jimmy Payne

February 5, 2009

Dear Sonia Jean and Children,
I'm so sorry that Johnny passed. I know the pain you all are going through. When I saw him at Uncle Bear's funeral, I told him I was sorry I lost touch with all my friends. When I lost my mother four years, it put me over the edge. The VA Hospital here in Johnson City, TN is still treating me for depression and Post Tramatic Stress Disorder. I lost all feelings for everything and everyone. All I do is work, come home and go to bed until it is time to get up and go to work. It is a horrible way to live. I know how you're children feel and what they are going through, as I lost my father at the early age of 22. Johnny was a man with no ememies. He was a great person who loved all of you very much. We grew up playing sports together, Bobby and Randy were buddies, and me and Johnny were buddies. My life is not a happy one, as I have lived alone for many years. I look forward to when God calls me so I can be united with those family members I've lost and will be with again. Many of my relatives probably don't like me anymore because I didn't come home for some of my relative's funerals, but they just don't understand what I've gone through since I lost my father when I was 22. My world changed then, and many other things have happened that broke my heart. I want you and all my relatives to know I love you all and think about you often. I fight a daily battle with things that has caused me pain throughout my life. My tour of duty in Iraq still bothers me and I don't think my life will ever be the same. You are blessed with wounderful children and grand-children. I've learned you never get over the pain, but it is something you will in time learn to live with. I will say a pray for Johnny, as I do for all my relatives and friends who have passed, each night and I believe when God calls us, we will be united again. It will be a beautiful life with no pain or sorrow that awaits us all. Again, Sonia, Johnny was taken for a reason we will never understrand until we are all together again. You, your chilidren and grand-children will hear his voice, see things, and experience things that only Johnny could send from the other side of live. God's Speed Johnny! Love, Jimmy!

Jimmy Payne

February 5, 2009

Dear Sonia Jean and Children,
I'm so sorry that Johnny passed. I know the pain you all are going through. When I saw him at Uncle Bear's funeral, I told him I was sorry I lost touch with all my friends. When I lost my mother four years, it put me over the edge. The VA Hospital here in Johnson City, TN is still treating me for depression and Post Tramatic Stress Disorder. I lost all feelings for everything and everyone. All I do is work, come home and go to bed until it is time to get up and go to work. It is a horrible way to live. I know how you're children feel and what they are going through, as I lost my father at the early age of 22. Johnny was a man with no ememies. He was a great person who loved all of you very much. We grew up playing sports together, Bobby and Randy were buddies, and me and Johnny were buddies. My life is not a happy one, as I have lived alone for many years. I look forward to when God calls me so I can be united with those family members I've lost and will be with again. Many of my relatives probably don't like me anymore because I didn't come home for some of my relative's funerals, but they just don't understand what I've gone through since I lost my father when I was 22. My world changed then, and many other things have happened that broke my heart. I want you and all my relatives to know I love you all and think about you often. I fight a daily battle with things that has caused me pain throughout my life. My tour of duty in Iraq still bothers me and I don't think my life will ever be the same. You are blessed with wounderful children and grand-children. I've learned you never get over the pain, but it is something you will in time learn to live with. I will say a pray for Johnny, as I do for all my relatives and friends who have passed, each night and I believe when God calls us, we will be united again. It will be a beautiful life with no pain or sorrow that awaits us all. Again, Sonia, Johnny was taken for a reason we will never understrand until we are all together again. You, your chilidren and grand-children will hear his voice, see things, and experience things that only Johnny could send from the other side of live. Love, Jimmy!

Tom Moore

February 4, 2009

Sonia, Salena, Sean and all of the Osborne family, You all are in our thoughts and prayers. I have many fond memories of John which include coaching girls' softball together, working with him in the Booster Clubs and as our insurance agent! His smile, quick dry wit and love of everyone(especially the youth with whom he worked) will forever be etched in my memory! Thanks for sharing him with the community! God Bless you all! Tom and Sandy Moore

Margaret Martin

February 4, 2009

To the Osborne Family,
It is with heavy hearts that we send our deepest condolences. I can't think of home (Bradshaw) without the Osbornes and the Colemans being there in my memories. You are all such a part of our past and we know Johnny will be greatly missed.

Margaret Ann (Hughes) Martin

Suzanne Jones

February 4, 2009

Dear Osborne family:
I am so very sorry. Having just lost my Dad 2 months ago, I certainly know the pain you are feeling and my heart aches for you. Please know that you have a multitude of friends who love you and are praying for you daily. I am so sorry I can't come home to attend the services. I will be praying that you will find strength for now and in the days ahead. Look to God for comfort ~ He will sustain you!

Kenneth Steele

February 4, 2009

Sonia, So sorry to hear about Johnny. We had such great times at Iaeger High class of 69. I will be praying for you. Your friend, Kenny Steele

Johnny Queen

February 4, 2009

Sonia,
I'm so sorry to hear of Johnny's passing. You and you're family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Johnny Queen.

Shea Francisco

February 4, 2009

Sean & Rachel~ Words could never explain how sorry I am for your loss. May god hold you in the palm of his hand. Let me know what I can do to help. Love you!

Margaret Jones

February 4, 2009

The Osbourne Family: Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your husband and father. You will, and have been, in my prayers during this most difficult time. My family has just gone through the same grief as you are going through now. May the Lord give you extra strength and encourgement now and in the days to follow.
Margaret Jones, Daleville, VA

Shelia Muncy

February 4, 2009

Sonia, I am so sorry for your loss. Johnny was a kind and caring person.
Your faith in God will get your through the hard times. I pray for you, the children and all of Johnny's family. You are in my thoughts

Brooke McMahan

February 4, 2009

To the Osborne Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Johnny. I too have so many great memories of Johnny as my softball coach and neighbor. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Please know that he will be watching you all from up above and smiling down on you.

Bobby Payne

February 4, 2009

Sonia Jean, Peggy & I are very sorry for the loss of our good friend and fellow agent , Johnny. We have many happy memories of him [and you] in and around our hometown of Bradshaw. He was a wonderful man and with you made a wonderful team. Please accept our prayers as an expression of sympathy for your loss. We love and miss all of you. Bobby Payne.

Sue Ketron

February 4, 2009

To John & his family, I would like to send my pryer & thoughts as you go through these trying times. Having worked with John several years ago, I can say he was one of the "good guys". He will certainly be missed by lots of people who knew him in the personal, as well as the business world.

Julie Cox

February 4, 2009

Salena & family~
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Beth Tonn (Lockhart)

February 4, 2009

Sonia,

I was so very sorry to hear about Johnny. I think about all the good times we used to have at IHS. You all were always so kind to me even though you were seniors, and I was a sophomore.

My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Darlene Buskirk

February 4, 2009

I was so sorry to hear about Johnny. I smile, when I think of him-his wonderful sense of humor. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Love,
Darlene Howery Buskirk

Angie Mitchell

February 4, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss. Johnny was such a wonderful and caring man who will not be forgotten by anyone who ever met him. My prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

Mary Sheilah Thornsbury

February 4, 2009

Sonia Jean: I am at a loss for the words to say how sorry I am that you have lost your dearest friend. My mind is rushing with all of the wonderful memories of us growing up together. I will cherish those memories forever. I love you.

Wanda Horton (Holley)

February 4, 2009

I would like to express my deepest sympathy to John's family. I worked for him for 3 1/2 yrs. & I can honestly say he was my favorite boss. He always treated me very well & meant alot to me. I would have probably still been working for him if I had not married & moved to another town. I know he will be greatly missed. Much love & many prayers,

Patricia &Mike Beckner

February 4, 2009

to the osborne family john was my insurance agent for about 10 years i was sad to see him retire at the first of the year he will be greatly and sadly missed by me and my family. i am so sorry for your loss.

Alicia Lovern

February 4, 2009

John you are a wonderful man and created so many great memories for me as a young softball player. You have such a kind and loving heart. You will be greatly missed but never forgotten. My thought and prayers are with your family.
God Bless You!

William Witz

February 4, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Kay Osborne

February 3, 2009

Sonia,
So sorry to hear about Johnny. I know what you are going through and with the help of your friends, family and most of all your faith in God you will make it through this. I know because I have. It is something we never get over but we do learn eventually to accept it and move on. Just try to remember he is in a much better place and in no pain now. Johnny(Queen) and I are going to try and come down if the weather doesn't get much worse. We have been seeing each other for about a year now and when he found out I was originally from Iaeger he told me about being such good friends with Johnny and Randy. He sure thought a lot of Johnny. Any time you just need to talk or need a shoulder to lean on, do feel free to call me. It helps sometimes if you can talk to someone who has experienced the same thing. Will keep you and your family in my prayers....Kay

LeAnn Keenan Gregory

February 3, 2009

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Patty Gibson

February 3, 2009

We remember Johnny as a man of quiet strength. He loved his family and along with Sonia loved the youth in the community. We send our condolences and regret that we will miss the services as we will be in Washington. Our prayers will be with the family during this time. Love, Tommy & Patty Gibson

Cindy (Harris) Johnson

February 3, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss. Johnny has a special place in my heart for all the great times we had on the softball field growing up. He always made us laugh and reminded us to have fun. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Chuck and Cathy Cohen

February 3, 2009

Our prayers are with the Osborne family. John was a great man and the reason we kept all of our insurance policies with Nationwide. God bless you all.

Tiffany Cox

February 3, 2009

Johnny! you will be remember in my heart for all you taught me at softball! all the fun times i had as a kid on the softball field, you being one of the coaches. May God be with the Osborne family through their time of loss.

Linda and Mike Kolnok, Jr

February 3, 2009

Our hearts go out to Osborne family. John was a great man and loved his family. Even though we had moved to Ohio, we kept contact with John over the years. God Bless!

February 3, 2009

It is with great sadness to hear about John. He was a wonderful man and loved his family dearly. We are here for you if you should need anything. We love you and will pray for your family in this difficult time.

Eric & Heather Whitson

Jodie Wertz

February 3, 2009

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Obsorne Family. Johnny was a wonderful man. I will always remember him being the best softball coach. He will be missed.

Sharon Patterson

February 3, 2009

I would like to give my deepest sympathy to the Osborne Family. I will miss working with John and eating his favorite asian food at lunch time. He was the best. With love always.

Showing 1 - 49 of 49 results

Make a Donation
in John Osborne's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for John Osborne

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor John Osborne's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more