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Lona Greer Watson

Lona Watson Obituary

WATSON Lona Greer
Lona Greer Watson, 42, of Callaway, Va., departed this life on December 14, 2009. Lonaâ€™s principal passions were travel, writing, horse culture and the preservation of our rural homestead. She worked at Carilion Franklin Memorial where her many friends and co-workers gave love and support during a horrible struggle with cancer. Like Poeâ€™s Knight of old, she found no spot of ground that looked like El Dorado, but she never tired of the quest. We are all diminished for the loss of this beautiful dreamer.

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

Published by Roanoke Times on Dec. 15, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Lona Watson

83 Entries

January 17, 2010

January 17, 2010

Lona was one of the bravest gals I've
ever met. She was never afraid to try.
I will sorely miss her cheerful and
open face. May you be jumping those
fences in heaven.
Susan Strong, Ferrum,Va.

January 17, 2010

Dennis Austin

January 16, 2010

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Amanda Austin

January 16, 2010

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

Cindy Guilliams

January 16, 2010

My memories of us when we were small children will be a comfort to me always. I will miss you Lona.

Ann Austin Whalen

January 16, 2010

Lona was my friend and cousin. I will miss her always.

Betty Beard, RN

January 16, 2010

My heart goes out to Lona's family and and friends for their loss. I came to understand the unique person that she was during the many nights I cared for in her hospital stays. She never complained "why me", she never gave up seeking healing, she never quit. Lona was a very courageous woman who lived her time here seeking all each day could bring her. I will never forget her, some people touch our hearts and leave us better for knowing them, Lona was one of these special people. Through our loss, Lona is in a place where she suffers no more. I pray for her family.

January 15, 2010

It is with sadness that I write this because there is such a void with Lona gone.I miss the sparkle in her eyes,her laughter that definitely made people smile too,her kindness to others,and her willingness to please others.I was amazed of her extreme knowledge and the unique ability to put that knowledge into words and write a wonderful novel.I still wait for her to call, telling us she was feeling better and would like us to come visit her.Lona, I will always fondly remember you.I know that you are with our Lord and are no longer in pain.Until we meet again,you will still be close in my heart. I pray for peace and comfort to come to your family,and was honored to have the opportunity to meet them. Rest peacefully and enjoy your new life.
Mari-Jo

Uncle Danny Scott

January 14, 2010

I always thought Lona was a real smart young lady. We both shared an interest in horses. She went after what she wanted in life. She was not afraid to try anything. I remember she sang "I want my Lord to be satisfied with me" in our church years ago. She grew up attending the House of Prayer in Ferrum. I hope to see Lona again in that land where there is no death.

Hillary Luther

January 14, 2010

I still cannot believe Lona is not here with us anymore. I will never, ever forget her contagious laughter! She is loved and missed so much.

Wren Boyd

January 14, 2010

I remeber how neat and clean Lona looked always, with her hair in a neat pigtail, down her back. And I r eally admired her intelligence.She was aspecial person and my heart goes out to the family. Love Wren

Tony Boyd

January 14, 2010

My main memory of Lona is when she was small, toddling around in Mama's house. She seemed more to me like a baby sister . I love her and miss her,but hope to meet her again in Heaven,where there is no more parting,or sad farewells. I carried a small picture of her in my wallet when i was in the Army.It made me think of being home. She was a sweet baby and i know Mama loved her very much.I hope they are at peace with Jesus. Uncle Tony.

John Gunnell

January 14, 2010

Lona, I miss ya and love ya
Your brother, Buzz

Yvonne Patterson

January 14, 2010

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009

January 14, 2010

As I was thinking of Lona today ,a vision of her stepping through the gates of Heaven popped into my head.She just stopped in her tracks and her face lit up with the most beautiful smile.Like,WOW! just what I was looking for.I know she is home.
Love, Aunt Nora Jane

Gail Arrington

January 14, 2010

Dear Family,

It is in regret that I’m writing this. I wish I had more time with Lona. How I wish that we could go back in time. How does time get away from us after all these years? Why do we grow apart? This busy world seems to rob of us most important things. It robs us of the time we need to spend with friends.

Lona and I first became friends when I was only 15 years old and we began work at Mama K’s Restaurant in Ferrum. We had such a fun time working there. Mama K and Raymond were such nice people. Again people that I’ve lost touch with over the years. Lona, Chad and I all enjoyed working at the restaurant and had so many fun times. We all grew a strong bond and friendship during that time. We spent a lot of time at work as well as the time we spent together outside of work. I couldn’t have been more blessed with friends who had such quality character. It feels strange that during that time many years ago now two of the people that were my closest friends are now gone.

Lona influenced me so much with her love for life, her free spirit. She was never bothered by what anyone else thought. She embraced life instead of running from it. She excelled in whatever she faced. When we were all faced with the horrible accident I can’t remember her complaining. I can remember visiting her during the hospital during that time and it wasn’t her that I can ever remember feeling sorry for herself. Although Lona had very serious injuries it was always the girl on the other side of her curtain that was always crying, always complaining, and always feeling sorry for herself. As usual Lona spent that time encouraging that girl with the broken back. Even after she came home and we began to get out again. Although she had to use a walker for some time she never complained.

I remember her love for photography and the amazing pictures that she used to take of her sister. Her portfolio was very impressive. I considered myself a little country bumpkin and had hardly been further than Roanoke, but my friend Lona she was living life at it fullest and she was going to NEW YORK. I was totally amazed at the courage she had. If it was something she wanted to do. She made a plan, set goals, and the she conquered whatever it was that she wanted. We all know that she made great accomplishments. I think we can all learn something from the way Lona lived her life.

Lona will be missed.

We plan our steps but it is ultimately the Lord that will direct our steps. Life may not go as we plan. However, we can be grateful that the Lord is never caught off guard. He knows everything that befalls us. I pray that the Lord will continue to direct our paths as He determines. We need the Lord. For when our burdens and our pain is too much to carry he will lift us and carry us when we can’t walk another step. Rest in him.

Cliff Hapgood

January 14, 2010

Conscientious, compassionate, courageous. I will always rememer her smile when we talked. She would have just told me something that I had never thought of, a different way of doing something. I was always amazed at what she was doing. There was nothing she couldn't do. What a wonderful book. She was always up beat, believing in the positive in people, doing whatever she could for anyone. There are no words for her courage.

She made us proud!

Judy Scott

January 13, 2010

Searching for Eldorado !

January 13, 2010

Loving her work !

January 13, 2010

Here's that smile !!!

January 13, 2010

Beautiful Dreamer....

January 13, 2010

Dan and Lona

January 13, 2010

Camera in hand a natural !

January 13, 2010

Always a proud Turkey !

January 13, 2010

Tammy Porter

January 13, 2010

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.

Missy Prillaman

January 13, 2010

Dear Family,

I want you to know that I was privileged to grow up with Lona at Henry Elementary School and Franklin County High School. If there was ever a person who always stayed true to themself it was Lona. When we were young, she was always strong and determined regardless of the circumstances. That never changed even until her death. Even though I considered her my close friend, Lona only allowed you to get so close. I want you to know about a special time that she allowed me inside that circle of hers. We were in second year Spanish at the High School. She asked me to play the piano for her at Ferrum College for her to sing in a competition. I played the song "Come by here my Lord" which she performed in Spanish. Little did we know then, that the Lord would come by her so soon. I was scared out of my mind. As usual Lona was very calm. I don't think we won any award, but we sure had fun being away from school for the day.
It is so true that you need to watch those who are the quietest. Lona never tried to stand out in the crowd or draw attention to herself. I know of no other grade school classmates that enjoyed life more than she after graduation. Lona obviously knew no boundaries. I am sure that in her passing she has continued to seek out all that her God has to offer.
May each of you hold fast to the memories and each other as you grieve over her passing.

Pam Coomes

January 13, 2010

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Guerlain(Gerry)

January 13, 2010

Lona ,I'm holding on to the memories I have of you. I never was around you much. But, I met you at Mama's house when you were a young child, before you had corrective surgery. Even with your problems at that time ,you were still bubbly and happy. Later ,I was amazed at the change, after the surgeries.I thought how brave you must be to go through all that. Then, later I heard of the bad injuries you got from a car wreck. You had a lot of trama in your younger years,but you came out of it tough. Frist thing I knew you were taking trips here and there. And your love of horses and dogs. I was so sorry to hear about your beloved dog that was killed by the bigger dogs,when you left it in the pen with them,while you were on a trip ,I think.
Your mom always filled me in on what you were doing.When I saw you at family reunions,I always spoke to you.
I'm so sad that you couldn't win this battle. You lived a lot in spite of all the drawbacks you had.If quality matters in life, you had quality.
I greived for your mom, she is such a special person to have so much pain in her life. I know you did your best to protect her,but some things can't be helped . God bless you wherever you are now, and your mom,too.

Gracie Greer

January 13, 2010

Your birthday has come once again
It seems but a short time since your life began,
It was on a very hot July morn,
I knew it was time for you to be born.
My brother drove me slowly down the road,But the pains of birth never slowed.
I wondered if he'd ever get me there,
So I could be in a doctor's care.
But as you know I made it fine, And on that day you became mine.
You were a very precious little girl,
I would not have traded you for the world.
And though you may not believe it's true,I've always had a special love for you.
But there is one who loves you much more,
His name is Jesus, He's Heavens door.
So I cry as I'm writing this poem,
Remembering the day that you were born.
For years have come and years have gone, But your childhood memories still linger on.
You did not come in a perfect form,
But I am thankful for the day you were born.
You are so busy in your life today,
I hope you take some time to pray.
For these thirty-seven years have so swiftly passed,and only what you do for Christ Jesus will last.

I thank God for allowing me to be
Lona's mother .

Gracie Greer

January 13, 2010

Lona is my daughter. I cannot say she was my daughter, because she will never be gone from my heart and mind.
The most precious thing on earth to a parent is their children, and to have one taken from us is no doubt the most grievous hurt to endure.
My life will never be the same as a child will be missed daily, and memories will not fade.
I am including a poem that I wrote for her on her thirty-seventh birthday.
I would also like to thank everyone for all the care that's been shown to me and my family during this trying time in our lives.

Pam Woods Harmon

January 13, 2010

It was a privilege to know Lona. We grew up together and to this day I still refer to her as one of my VERY best friends. You could not have had a better friend than Lona. We had some good times growing up together and getting each other in and out of mishaps at school. When I got married, she had a picture that she had taken in Australia enlarged and framed and gave it to us. I have it hung in my office at work and will think of her each day as always. Our loss is heaven's gain. We only see the pieces of the puzzle of life but God sees the whole picture and He knows what is best. My sympathies to the family and friends left behind to miss her so greatly!

Sherry Webb

January 13, 2010

I first met Lona when I came to work at Franklin Memorial a little over seven years ago. I must say she intimidated the daylights out of me because she was just so smart. When I told her that a couple of years ago she couldn't believe it and started laughing. Looking back I don't think it was intimidation exactly, but a form of envy. She had been so many places and done so many things on her own, that I wish I had had the guts to do on myself. As I got to know her through the years she became one of my greatest friends. We had a yard sale together, went out to eat together and had some of the greatest conversations about just about everything imaginable. She was very proud of her book and education and we all shared those triumphs with her. I always loved hearing her stories of her visits to England and Austrailia and the adventures she had there.Lona was a bright ray of sunshine in our lab and always planned our get-togethers and dinners. This year at Christmas,I don't know about my other co-workers, but there was a lot missing because she was no longer with us. I will miss her terribly . Lona was the most unique, sincere, courageous, and remarkable person I have ever known. She fought the fight with everything she had and lost the battle against the most formidable challenge in her life.
She is greatly missed. May she rest in peace.

Sherry Webb

Susan Miller

January 12, 2010

Lona was truly a unique person. I feel fortunate to have been her friend. She and I shared so much in our 5AM talks. She always had so much optimism and wanted to do so much in life. In reality, she did more in her short time than most people do that live twice as long.

Celebrate her life on earth and rejoice in the fact that she is no longer in pain.

Peace be with you.

She was a very special person, always a smile...

January 12, 2010

We had a great day !

January 12, 2010

Becky Smith

January 12, 2010

Lona was and will always be a very special person to me. I will always remember her as a person you made her dreams come true. A person who had the desire to make a difference not only in her own personal life but in the lives of those she met on a daily basis. She would share her American dream in each and every conversation you had with her and lots of times she would leave you wondering is she crazy or what? Then given some time she would bring her craziness to reality. A lesson learned from her for me would be don't let your dreams go, with determination you can make them come true. She was a living testimony of that. Sending my love to you Gracie, Buzz, Lena and Rita,as you face each day without her. I encourage you to have that same strong determination that Lona had and continue to make a difference.
She will be missed tremendously but she will never be forgotten.

Alina Sowder

January 12, 2010

Lona was a great aunt and she always played crochet with us at cookouts for her birthday. I love her and I loved to ride horses at her house. And Trinity loves her too.

Steve Smith

January 12, 2010

Memories of Lona as a young girl is what I am most familiar with. I remember seeing her at church, and church related activities. As Lona became a grown woman she followed her dreams. She dreamed BIG, and it really impressed me, when she would act on these endeavors. She would travel, meet new people, continue to further her education, even write a book, WOW. That was just Lona! But, what I remember most was her voice, and her smile, a beautiful smile...

Rowena Cooper

January 12, 2010

Lona will always be in my heart. She was always nice to me. To me she was a happy and sweet girl. She was also my neice and I loved her very much. I will alwas love the memories she instilled in me because I think of how brave she must have been to go all the way to Austrailia by herself. I could have never done that. She was truely an amazing person. I was proud to tell people that she was a nurse at Franklin Memorial Hospital and that she had done all this stuff like traveling on a plane and going to forgien countries and even making a great friend in England. She left an empty space in the hearts of her family & friends. She will be missed.

Edythe Goodman

January 12, 2010

Lona was a very special person. She was a pleasure to work with although she was a very private person. We will always miss her special smile and her go get them attitude. Losing someone is so very hard, but knowing that we will one day be with them again helps to mend the pain we feel now. The tears that we shed now are not tears for the loved one lost, but they are tears for us. Lona no longer has to suffer, she feels no pain, her loss is now our pain. We must have faith and believe that we will all one day be together with our heavenly father. May you all find peace in knowing that Lona is happy, pain free, and sitting in heaven waiting on all of us to get there.

Deborah Hodges

January 12, 2010

When I think of Lona I would think of all the Sundays we spent together when the family came to visit Grandma. I remember that crooked smile of hers, when she approached you she had something unique to say and it didn’t matter if you liked or believed the way she did, she was going to tell you her point of view on situations anyway. That’s what made Lona- Lona. She was herself and didn’t try to be someone that she wasn’t. I respected her for that, not to say I always agreed with her I had no desire to ride a horse and buggy the rest of my life nor did I want to travel the world by myself but that was what Lona was all about. She brought a lot of inspiration into my life by just knowing her & loving her the way she was.
She is sadly missed! My prayers for you Gracie,Buzz,Lena & Rita to remeber all the wonderful times you had with Lona and cherish them. Most important is to think of her in HEAVEN with no more pain.
Love & Prayers,
Deborah Hodges

Freda Scott

January 12, 2010

My love and prayers are with the family. May the Lord comfort you as only He can.

Crystal Collins

January 12, 2010

When I think of Lona, and when I was asking people to pray for Lona I would describe her as unique. When we were growing up I remember the pictures she took of Rita. They were so good! People always told me I looked like her. We would share the dreaded disease of breast cancer and both of us at a younger age than the norm to be diagnosed. When I was told about Lona it sent shivers down my spine because I knew or at least partially knew what would come in the form of doctors, treatment, set backs, days of feeling rotten, nights of thinking, and many many prayers. Then the prayers would bring peace. I prayed that peace for Lona. There is no better medicine or treatment than peace straight from our creator! She now is at rest and in the arms of our Savior and Lord Jesus! I pray now for you Gracie, Lena, Rita, Buzz, Dan for the peace in knowing that she accepted her death to be in the place we all long to go, the place where we will see our Jesus face to face and will see Lona again.. our reward..HEAVEN!

Doris Q. Holland

January 11, 2010

I will remember Lona having to check dad's blood so many times when he was in the hospital. She had to always tell him who she was and then he was so comforted to know she was a family member. He was so proud he would tell the other nurses that Lona was kin to him. She was a very sweet person and I'm sure she will be missed by a lot of people. Just take one-day-at-a-time. God Bless

Freda Nichols

January 11, 2010

I have known Lona all of her life and I used to sit for her and her siblings when I was only 16. We spent a lot of time together back then and had many memories of walking to the store to get drinks and a snack. I once tried to cook supper for my Aunt Gracie, Lona's mother, when I was finished Lona picked up a bisquit and took it out to her dog, only to bring it back in to say, "My dog wouldn't even eat these things." I had used plain flour and they were hard as bricks.Ha...
Lona grew to be a very intelligent woman with the desire to do all that she could during this lifetime and I think she accomplished much more than the majority of us all in her short time here. Lona was a traveler, writer, horse rider and I later found out at an open house for a craft store my Aunt Julian opened that she was also a great photographer. I enjoyed spending the day with her that day. Lona also wrote a book titled "Nocturn" which is a book I would highly recommend for those avid readers. She was a very talented writer. The book had me and my daughter reading every night until we had read the entire book. Each chapter had us sitting on edge wanting to know what was going to happen next. I truely enjoyed that experience she gave to her readers. I admired her and her stories of her travels to Austrailia and other areas of our world. Lona was brave and explored life and I was glad to be a small part of her life. Lona will be greatly missed by all who knew her, but for those who know Christ will have the privilage to see her again one day in heaven. My prayers are that the family will be healed somewhat from this great loss. We will never forget her. She will live on in our minds and hearts forever. She suffers no more here because she is living with Jesus in heaven and her body is free of the pain.

Lisa Ann Zeigler

January 11, 2010

For some reason Lona often went out of her way to be in my life...I never quite understood it but I always contributed it to her love of my mama. She would show up to "play" on the computer...or tell me about an upcoming horse show, or book signings constantly encouraging me to attend. She even recruited me to "do something to her house"...u know fancy like...LOL. I cleaned a little and we agreed it was hopeless =o) (I think it was an attempt to get me out of the house)..There is much I can say..much that I feel~ but it all comes down to I love her and I am sadened by her passing but I will always see her unique precious smile in my heart. I love you Gracie, Lena, Rita, Buzz , Dan and everyone else...know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Lena Sowder

January 11, 2010

Being the older sister is hard when you have a talented and unique sister like Lona.

I am not a photographer.
I am not a writer of poetry.
I am not a horse rider.
I am not a world traveler.
I am not a college graduate.
I am not an author.

I am however, a very proud sister.

Not many (if any) can say that they are all of the above, but Lona could!
She accomplished so much in her short time here on earth. I was glad to have been part of her life and to share some of her accompishments with her. There are many regrets that will follow me, but there are good times and good days spent together, that will help when those regrets arise. But knowing I will see her again in Heaven makes all the difference!!
I want to thank all the people who have shared in Lona's life and let us as a family share in your memories.
She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

They say if life gives you lemons, make
lemonade.
Lona, I think, with God's help, You made a wonderful sweet lemonade!!!

Beth Grice

January 10, 2010

Lona and I were friends and co-worker for 15 years. There are some simple things that I will always remember like the way she sat on her leg and how she wore that ratty white sweater everyday because she was cold. Lona started most days with what we would discuss. She loved horses, her land, debating politics and religion, going to school and her book Nocturne. When she got the shocking news of her first breast cancer, she started her crusade to educate us. We all started watching what we ate and promised to all get a mammogram. Then came the horrible news that her cancer had returned, was aggressive and all invasive. On a few occasions, Lona and I talked about our belief in God and prayer. I now know that she is with God and I will see her someday in Heaven. The last time we all went to visit Lona in the hospital, she made us put on her cap, the nurses propped her up in bed and she told us all goodbye. The last thing we said to each other was that we loved each other and she told me she was at peace.
Although Lona is no longer with us, she will remain in my heart forever.

Linda Edwards

January 6, 2010

God bless Lona's family and friends.

Marcia Horn

January 5, 2010

Years ago Lona and I boarded our horses at Joanie's and used to love walking, trotting, and even jumping together. This was a wonderful, relaxing time, and I remember Lona's kind eyes and beautiful smile. Quite recently I saw Lona at Edible Vibe in Rocky Mount--such a joyful rediscovery! I am so sorry I wasn't able to attend her book reading the following day, but I remember what a pleasure it was to reconnect and revive our earlier memories together. I will miss her deeply.

Rhonda and Tabitha

January 4, 2010

There's a very special garden
Where the trees of memory grow
Nurtured by the kindness
And concern that good friends show.
The roots are cherished memories
Of good times in the past
The branches tender promises
That souls endure and last.
It's a place of peace and beauty
Where bright new hopes can start
It's memory's lovely garden
That soothes the hurting heart

We're gonna miss you Lona. RIP

Rhonda and Tabitha

January 4, 2010

Robin Goodman

January 3, 2010

Sometimes we may not understand Gods ultimate plan and why Lona was taken at such a young age and in such a way as cancer....but I do know when God created my aunt Lona he broke the mould. Someone with her drive and courage sure leaves a mark on this world and unfortunately alot of pain and sorrow. Im so glad Alina got to spend times with her aunt Lona as she also has that love for horses... and although Trinity (my no-lip turtle as Lona called her) wasnt old enough to know much of her I can tell her about my wonderful, brilliant, greatly missed aunt Lona. I can only hope to have a fraction of her strength in my lifetime...

Hannah Martin

December 31, 2009

Dear Family of Lona Greer-Watson

Lona was a wonderful person, inside and out. I started working with Lona 6 years ago and immediately felt a kinship with her. A lot of our growing up/family history was similar. We often laughed over those “good ole days’. Lona was uniquely awesome. She challenged everyday beliefs, thoughts, traditions and the true color of the sky. Many of our conversations were thought provoking and heated. She had a way of making you understand the opposite view, even if you did not agree. Lona was our guide to new adventures and restaurants. She was a beautiful, intelligent woman, a great friend; she could always be counted upon. ALWAYS. I will miss her dearly. I am honored to have known Lona and to have been a part of her life. Please accept my condolences; you all are in my thoughts and prayers.

December 31, 2009

I met Lona in 1998 on the Tasmanian (Australian) night ferry we shared a 4 berth Ladies cabin...and while we were leaving the ferry she asked me if I could give her a lift to the nearest town..10 days later we were still travelling together...
Although there was a gap in our ages and Lona was an American and me English our views on the world, religion and politics just fitted together and we could laugh and talk for hours.
From then on although we lived a world away and could only visit together maybe over the years 6 times and talk on the phone when work and circumstances allowed and my letter writing was spasmodic...we kept in touch ....Finding each time we did touch base our views on life remained so close.
WE shared Backpacker rooms...walked Australian creeks looking for gold...My brothers wedding party...and on her last trip just as the cancer was taking hold we visited the pre-Christian sites of standing stones and the beautiful town of Canterbury with its cathedral built with the most lovely stain glass ever made..surrounded on all sides by medeval houses and little narrow streets.
So many memories over the years and through them all runs the voice of lona making us both laugh and question every fact coming our way.
I am finding it hard to come to terms Lona will never visit again or write one of her little cards cramed with news ...
Rest in peace Lona your fight is over.

Sheree Lawrence

December 30, 2009

I NEVER KNEW LONA EXCEPT THROUGH TWO OF HER COWORKERS. TONYA AND SHELLEY BOTH LOVED LONA AS A SISTER. SHE WAS SUCH A MENTOR TO BOTH OF THEM AND THEY REALLY LEARNED A LOT FROM HER.
SHE WAS SUCH A SPECIAL LADY AND LIVED HER LIFE TO THE FULLEST. I ONLY KNEW HER AS THE EGG LADY AND SHE COULD HOOK YOU UP WITH THEM .
TO HER FAMILY ALL I CAN SAY IS MAY GOD BE WITH ALL OF YOU . YOU HAVE TRUELY LOST A CORNER STONE OF YOUR FAMILY. MY PRAYERS ALSO GO OUT TO THE MANY FRIENDS AND STAFF AT CFM.
SO SPREAD YOUR WINGS AND FLY LONA FOR YOU ARE IN NO MORE PAIN.
SHEREE LAWRENCE

LeeAnn Whorley

December 30, 2009

Lona it is so hard to believe that you are no longer with us. I am glad you found peace and comfort. I had the honor of working with Lona at RMH for a few years before we met again at FMH. She was the strongest person I have ever meet and always full of knowledge. The last hike we took in July 2009 was great. I had to ask Lona to stop so I could catch my breath. I reminded her she had "cancer". I miss you greatly.

betty hayes

December 29, 2009

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Tom and Tina Sullivan

December 28, 2009

Lona once said that life was like a steeplechase with hurdles along the way. She overcame many and will be missed. Our love and prayers are with her dear family.

Shirley Allen

December 28, 2009

Lona will always be one of the most interesting persons who ever crossed my path. As a child she visited my home often, since her mom and I are best friends. Lona was not above hard work. As a teenager she worked in a local restaurant. I remember us laughing about how she knew when a certain man would give a good tip, (it was always when he had someone with him). Lona had a sense of humor that brought joy to those around her. I can honestly say she was the bravest girl I have ever known. At a very young age, she accomplished daring feats; such as, traveling alone in New York City, Australia and other countries. Her love for horses, nature, hiking and learning was commendable. Lona was a true blessing in my life.

Rita Sigmon

December 18, 2009

There are no words to describe the pain of losing a sister as unique as Lona. She went through a lot in her life, but she always overcame anything that came her way. She was the epitome of strength. If the truth be known, I have always strived to make her proud of her little sister because I admired her so much. Nae, I hope I made you proud and you will forever be in my heart because we're sisters. I will make sure that Brooklynn remembers her Nae Nae. Her bedtime prayer came true, your body has been healed.

Michaela Crawford, RN

December 17, 2009

I learned so much from Mrs. Watson in the time I cared for her during her illness. She was a wonderful spirit and a beautiful woman. It is truly a shame her life was cut so short. Her family is my thoughts and prayers.

Julie Ann Larsen

December 17, 2009

Even from infancy, Lona was the most unique person I have ever has the pleasure to have known and loved, There was never anything she let get her down not even this terrible illness, she always had that wonderful laugh,we had so much fun when we were together, I shall always miss her and I hope she knows how very much I loved her.
Good-bye my wonderful niece, you will forever have a special place in my heart.

Clayton Hale

December 17, 2009

Lona was one of the best people anyone could ever have the privilege to know. She never had a harsh word to say about anyone and always kept to herself even when we were young. I just wish I had spent more time around her as we got older for she will be greatly missed. My prayers are with Gracie and all Lona,s brothers and sisters and her husband Dan I hope they all know if they need anything I,m just a phone call away.

December 16, 2009

Nae was a unique and talented person of which there will be no other like her.

In her short 42 years she traveled the world, lived and loved and even wrote a novel. Not many can say they have done the same.

It is a shame that a wonderful person and mind has been lost at such a young age.... See More

Cancer is more than just a disease it is a thief!

Jessie Hall

December 16, 2009

Nae was a unique and talented person of which there will be no other like her.

In her short 42 years she traveled the world, lived and loved and even wrote a novel. Not many can say they have done the same.

It is a shame that a wonderful person and mind has been lost at such a young age....

Cancer is more than just a disease it is a thief!

Goodbye Nae, Until we meet again..

Stephanie Watts

December 16, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you and I am honored to be able to say that I knew Lona.

Betty Wadkins

December 16, 2009

God bless you as you adjust to this new time in your life. May God's peace be with you as you move forward as Lona would want you to.

Brenda Coffman

December 16, 2009

I will never forget our trip to The Big Apple! Our days of working together, laughing and talking are memories that I will not forget. Thanks for the memories.

Darrell W. DeWeese

December 15, 2009

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Kendra Sink

December 15, 2009

lona you were a fabulous cousin you will be missed by all that knew you, I already miss your sarcasm and the way you made me laugh. your strengh was passed to whomever you met. love you

Kendra sink(ferrum)

kendra sink

December 15, 2009

lona you were a fabulous cousin you will be missed by all that knew you, I already miss your sarcasm and the way you made me laugh. your strengh was passed to whomever you met. love you

December 15, 2009

Lona was my student at Radford. We kept in touch until very recently. She was a fine person, one who loved life and learning and who should have had many more years. I was fortunate to know her.
Mary Atwell, Professor of Criminal Justice, Radford University

Chancie & Kim Ashley

December 15, 2009

Lona will be greatly missed by her friends and coworkers at Franklin Memorial. She was a very special person. God Bless you all at this time.

Chris Cooper

December 15, 2009

When I think of Lona, I will always remember the times we talked about the horses. A passion that we shared. She will be sorely missed by everyone. The world needs more people like her.

Judy Scott

December 15, 2009

It is so hard to know that Nae is not here anymore. She is and will always be in my heart.

Jeannie Carroll

December 15, 2009

The nurses of acute care servies and ICU, at Carilion Franklin Memorial Hospital would like to extend our sincere sympathy to Loma's family. We will miss her smiling face soo much! Our thought and prayers go with her loved ones, that God will comfort you and her beautiful memory will sustain you in your sorrow. God Bless You!

December 15, 2009

May God comfort each of you during this difficult time. She was such a sweet person, she cared for others with a passion few possess. She will be missed by all.

~ Mark & April Shively and Family

Ann Walker

December 15, 2009

I knew Lona first as a student and then as a friend and am honored to have had her in my life. Rest in peace , my friend. God bless her family and her friends.

December 15, 2009

I am honored to have called this young woman my FRIEND. "MA MA K"

Sarah Brinks

December 15, 2009

Peace Lona.

Wanda Spencer

December 15, 2009

To the Watson and Greer family,
Lona was a special person and all those that knew her will be saddened. May God comfort you and give you peace. Every patient she had was left with the glowing smile and understanding she gave so easily. God bless each of you.
Wanda Sigmon Spencer, Collinsville VA 24078

Tonya Lawrence

December 15, 2009

~RIP Lona~ I love you and miss you!!

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