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Steuart Ligon Obituary
Born in Sandy Spring, Maryland on March 10, 1946, he was a son of Dr. Charles Hartshorne Ligon MD and Roberta Shaw Ligon.
He was a graduate of Sandy Spring Friends School, the University of Delaware, and the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He was a member of Alpha Zeta, an honors agriculture fraternity.
He practiced veterinary medicine first in Waynesboro, Virginia before starting his own practice in Nelson County, Lovingston Veterinary Hospital. He has been an active supporter of the Almost Home Adoption Program of the Humane Society/SPCA of Nelson County for over 25 years. He has been active and long standing member of the American Border Collie Association and of the Virginia Border Collie Association. He was founding director of the Fall Fiber Festival and Montpelier sheep dog trial. He had a great compassion for his family, friends, patients, and clients, and cared deeply about his communities.
He was loved very much, will be greatly missed, and is survived by his wife, LaRayne Harper Ligon; his sons, Markley G. Ligon of Newark, Delaware and Gordon S. Ligon of Millboro Springs, Virginia; his daughters, Kellas Ligon Wechsler of Marysville, Pennsylvania, Jennifer Ligon Blosser of Harrisonburg, Virginia, Jessica L. Ligon of Blacksburg, Virginia; his granddaughter, Samantha G. Wechsler; father, Charles H. Ligon and his wife, Kay, of El Cerrito, California; brother, Jim Ligon of Sandy Spring, Maryland; and sister, Effie Ligon of Yelm, Washington.
The public is invited to a reception from 6 until 8 p.m. Friday, June 8, 2007, at the Nelson Community Center.
A public memorial service will be held 3 p.m. Saturday, June 9, 2007, at the family cemetery on Seclusival Farm.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider contributions to be made to the American Cancer Society or the Humane Society/SPCA of Nelson County.
Byrum-Parr Funeral Home is serving the family.
Memories and Condolences
for Steuart Ligon
Karen Thomason DVM
June 23, 2007
Stu was a collegue, and a friend. The veterinary and border collie communities will miss him greatly.
He was a hard worker, and loved his farm and trialing. Life is short. My heart goes out to his family...we'll miss him.
Oma Wechsler
June 16, 2007
Tomorrow is Father's Day and Stu would be proud to know that another grandchild is coming into the world!
This is such a wonderful Father's Day presemt! I know he is so proud and is smiling down!
Happy Father's Day in Heaven!
God saw you were gettig tired,and a cure was not to be, so he put his arms around you and whispered,
"Come to me"
With tearful eyes we watched you and saw you pass away,
Although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay.
A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us, he only takes the best.
Happy Father's Day Stu!!!
Shirley & Dennis Schaup
June 15, 2007
Kellas & Matt...To let you know that Uncle Denny & I are thinking of you and keeping you all close in prayer. I hope that you find comfort in knowing how very much the two of you are loved. Kellas, I just wanted to let you know that my own Father passed away when I was 28yrs. old and Mandy was only a little over a year old at the time. I know exactly how hard it is at this time because you are just starting a "new" family of your own and having to lose a significant part of your childhood family. I was very close to my Father and it is the memories in life that keep us going and the hope of someday being rejoined with our loved ones. Keep those memories close to heart and your Father will always be with you. My Dad was a lot like your Father in his love for animals and the country life. There are so many wonderful traits that he has unknowingly passed on to me as I can tell so has your Father. Love You Always....Aunt Shirley & Uncle Denny
Kellas Ligon Wechsler
June 14, 2007
Dad – As a child you were my hero because of all the things you could do. I loved so much watching you work on the farm and with animals and I just loved being with you! As an adult I loved those same things, but you were also an inspiration to me. When I found out about my own thyroid cancer (which has now been taken care of hopefully for good) you became the spirit that I tried to emulate. You were so very rarely down or upset about having cancer. It was just another stepping stone in your life to help define who you were as a person. Fortunately for me I had such a strong character to look up to…you helped me in so many ways to become the person that I am today and I know that you are proud of me. I also know that you recognize how very proud I am of you too! You will always live on in our memories and our hearts! My children will always know their “pop-pop.” I love you more then you can imagine! Love your daughter
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John and Barbara Hogan
June 13, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. Ligon and his family. We carried our dog Missy to him for over 10 years. He was such a wonder doctor to her. He was always pleasant and kind.
Mimi Ligon Dang
June 13, 2007
I am touched to hear of all the lives my cousin Stu has touched. My sympathy and love to his family, especially my cousins Effie and Jim and my Uncle Chick and Aunt Kay.
Carlie and Steve Fink
June 12, 2007
I
really didn't know Dr. Ligon but I know his daughters Kellas & Jen.
I am so sorry for your loss. Always remember that he is Samantha's
guardian angel now!! He will protect her, be by her side & guide her
to make the right choices!! I will always be here for you in good and
bad, even if I can't be there physically, emotionally I am!! Love
always, Your dearest friend, Carlie
Family Pets of A.D & Connie Massie
June 12, 2007
We will miss our doctor very much and we send kisses and tail wags to his family and staff.
Toby, Dixie, Roscoe, Sassy Marie, Smutty, Sissy, Callie Berry, Pookie, Booty Boy and Baby Boy Massie
Connie Massie
June 12, 2007
To Rayne, Staff at Lovingston Veterinarian Hospital, and Stu's family,
Steuart was a special man and a compassionate veterinarian, and he will be sorely missed by his friends, patients and the Nelson County Community. I, as well as all my critters, will miss his soft spoken voice and gentle ways. It was an honor to know him for the past thirty or so years.
Beth Chuck
June 10, 2007
Over ten years ago I attended the Seclusival Farm stockdog trial. I took a photo of my son with a puppy that I later had made into a drawing. It's the first thing I see each time I walk in my door. We, in the border collie community, will miss seeing Steuart at the trials that he loved. All our thoughts go to his family.
Cove Creek Animal Farm The Critzer Family
June 10, 2007
I've been sitting here for an hour trying to think of the perfect words to make folks understand just how much Doc Ligon meant to our family and especially to our animals. Words just don't seem to compare to all the heartbreaking emotions we are feeling at the loss of such a gifted person.
He could make you laugh, mad, happy, and all in one visit! That's what we adored about him.
His soft spot for cats also didn't hurt as he helped our sanctuary spay and neuter probably close to 100 cats over the past 3 years.
He was a great vet, the best surgeon we had ever seen and we have seen a lot of them and no one came close to Doc Ligon.
We truly believe he was the "James Herriot" of our era.
We have all lost a great man. A great father, friend, brother, son, husband, and vet. Our hearts go out to each and every one of you that were fortunate enough to have known him on a more personal level for you were and forever will be blessed.
As for us, we shall miss our beloved Doc Ligon, and it will be very hard for any other vet to compare to him. He was and always shall be remembered as one of a kind.
The Critzer/deSibour Family and All the Animals at Cove Creek Animal Farm
To all family and friends, you are in our thoughts and prayers during your time of sadness. He saved are cats and dogs! BEST VET!!!!!
CoveCreek Animal kids
Mark and Dana Rodgers
June 9, 2007
Dr. Ligon made such a difference in Nelson County. He touched so many lives. Our thoughts are with the Ligon Family and staff of the clinic during this time of mourning. God Bless you all.
Erica Childs
June 9, 2007
To the entire Ligon family:
My thoughts and prayers are with you on this sad day. Steuart had a good life simply because he was surrounded by good people. I am sure he looks down on all of you with great love.
Kathy Burdette
June 8, 2007
I called today to make an appointment and asked about Dr. Ligon. My heart ached! We came to Scottsville from North Carolina and have been here a number of years. It took a while to locate a good, loving, kind, and special doctor for our animals. On our first visit with Dr. Ligon we knew we had found the perfect doctor to care for our little people in fur coats. Many people and many, many animals have lost not only their wonderful caregiver, but the loss of a gentle man with a heart of gold. I have kept Dr. Ligon in my daily prayers and called to ask about him often. His family and his staff will be held close in my heart and my prayers.
Years ago I wrote a lot of poems. I would like to dedicate this one to the memory of this very precious man.
Death
Death is just a tranquil sleep
'Tis not the end, so please don't weep,
To leave this world there is no choice
Yet, grieve not for me, let your heart rejoice,
An Eternal Home will soon be mine
A Glorious Home that is finer than fine,
The angels will welcome me with songs of love
Leading me into Heaven above,
My body will be cleansed whiter than snow
And my crown will be decorated with stars aglow,
In peace and harmony my God I will meet
For He holds for me a blessed seat,
So when you see me drifting away
Don't allow this to be a sad filled day,
Remember, Dear, as I close my eyes
There is no Christian that truly dies,
We will meet again in the Eternal Land
And walk together, forever, hand in hand.
Dr. Ligon will be missed. Thank You, God, for sharing him with us.
Kathy Cashion Burdette
Stephen, and all our animals.
Robert and Ruth Self
June 8, 2007
We can't really believe Dr. Ligon is gone. He's been our vet for 20 years, providing medical expertise for a succession of cats and dogs over the years. It was obvious how deeply he cared for each and every one of his patients. His death is a great loss to our community. Our prayers are with his family and his staff.
betty James
June 8, 2007
To Kelly,Matt and the Ligon Family
My deepest sympathy in the loss of your father Dr Ligon. My Love and Prayers are with all of you. The memories you have will always keep him in your heart Samantha will. have a special star shining down on her Love Grammy James
Erma Harris
June 8, 2007
My sympathies are with the Ligon Family. May God Comfort you all.
Daniel Berrier
June 8, 2007
My thought are with all the Ligon family at this difficult time. Steuart will be greatly missed by all those whose lives he touched.
Michelle and John zettle
June 8, 2007
Dear Matt and Kellas: Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. It is very hard to lose someone you love but just remember he is at peace and smiling down on all of you. Samantha now has a guardian angel watching over her.
We love you...
Amelie Blackwell
June 8, 2007
Dear Jennifer and family,
please recieve my very best sympathy for the loss of Dr. Stuart Ligon. I will pray for him and for you.
Emily Page-Steacy
June 8, 2007
Dr. Ligon cared for all our animals, large and small. He made trips out to our farm in the middle of the night for collicking horses, helped corral three annoyed cats in our home for their shots, and helped bring a comfortable end to the lives of our sick and elderly pets. And he did it all with such love and compassion - for both the animals and their owners. He will be missed.
Nick & Arlene, Obie, Hamner, PD, Skitty, Tessie, Shenaynay, Page
June 8, 2007
Steuart was a compassionate vet and person. We offer our sympathy to his family, and to his "family" of clients and patients. We will certainly miss him.
Cindy Taylor
June 8, 2007
Dr. Ligon cared for my animals a few times over the years. First, when we were moving from Northern VA to the Lynchburg area, my cat became very car sick and we saw his practice on 29 and stopped in. He was so caring in that short experience. Later, we moved to Nelson Co. and Dr. Ligon was our regular family vet. He dealt with several sicknesses and injuries for my four legged babies while we lived there. He was always so sweet and compassionate as well as knowledgable. His family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers. I know he had many wagging tails to greet him across the Rainbow Bridge!
Sharon Barrett Kennedy
June 8, 2007
I got to know Dr. Ligon five years ago when I adopted two kittens from the Nelson County Humane Society. While I later switched to a vet closer to home, I remember Dr. Ligon with fondness and respect. He was a genuinely nice, caring man and I'm so appreciative of the wonderful care he provided for my kitties, Kian and Kai, in their early months. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends; I am so sorry for your loss.
Deborah (Debbie) Gentry Wood
June 7, 2007
I was sad to hear of Dr. Ligon's passing. I first met Dr. Ligon when I was about 4 or 5 years old and if I remember correctly my Mom tells me that my cat was one of his very first patients in Lovingston. He not only cared for all of the animals that I had growing up, he also gave me my first real job as an assistant in his office a couple of afternoons a week after school and on Saturdays. He was a great man, very kind and compassionate. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family, friends & staff. I pray that all of you will depend on God to get you through this extremely difficult time. Just remember that it is truly in God's time that we all are called to him, even if we here on earth do not understand the reason why. Dr. Ligon will be greatly missed.
God Bless,
Jenn Rodgers
June 7, 2007
I've known Dr. Ligon all my life. He is apart of my earliest childhood
memories. Dr. Ligon always showed my pets and my family such care and
compassion. I am deeply saddened by his loss. The community has lost a
valuable citizen and a wonderful man. My heart is with the Ligon
family.
Ha-makom Yinachem Etchem -- Hebrew for, May God comfort those who mourn.
Fondly,
Nancy and Adam Andreski
June 7, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of his children at this time. Know that we love you very much!
Pamela Matlack Klein
June 7, 2007
My heart goes out to all of Stu's children, it is a terrible thing to lose a wonderful Daddy and I know the grief they are feeling right now. Condolences also to his parents, brothers and sisters and wife.
Lee & Linda Dietrich
June 7, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Steuart, I will always remember his smile and his warm personality.
Tammy Harris
June 7, 2007
The world has lost (but Heaven has gained) a wonderful man and a compassionate veterinarian. My deepest sympathies go out to his family and to his staff at Lovingston Veterinary Hospital. I will deeply miss Dr. Ligon. I sincerely believe that he went above and beyond the extra mile in providing care for my first dog, Frisky, when most other vets would probably have encouraged me to have him put to sleep. Thanks to Dr. Ligon, I had fifteen wonderful years with Frisky. Needless to say, he has been all of my animals vet since then, continuing to provide his own exceptional care to each. The animals in our community have lost a true champion.
Melissa Simpson
June 7, 2007
Dr. Ligon will be greatly missed. I continually drove to Lovingston to have him care for my pets. My deepest sympathy to all of his family and friends. May God be with you through this difficult time.
Rachel Paulin
June 7, 2007
My thoughts go out to the Ligon family at this sad time. Much love to all of you.
June 7, 2007
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME.
DEBBIE MASSIE (PINEY RIVER)
Jim Ligon
June 7, 2007
I'm not sure that I have marshaled all of my thoughts yet, but certainly admiration and respect for all that Steu accomplished are foremost. Overcoming dyslexia to graduate from Veterinary School, establishing a very successful practice in a very rural area, taking the family farm and making it a going concern, sowing kindness and compassion as he went through life, and fathering 5 very wonderful children. His astuteness and dedication led to prize winning flocks and successful dogs. Certainly it will be difficult for all of us to emulate his legacy.
Steuart enjoying his Grand-daughter Samantha.
Linda(Oma) Wechsler
June 7, 2007
I wanted to share this picture of Steuart with his Grand daughter Samantha!
I know Kellas will share her memories of her Dad with Samantha and keep him in their hearts forever!
Thinking of you Kellas!
Love You,
Oma Wechsler
Gita & Lena Bailey
June 7, 2007
Stu was like a father to me and will be missed. He will be missed by myself and my mother, and was a dear friend for many years... Gita and Lena Bailey
Sarah Wyland
June 7, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the Ligon family during this difficult time. Dr. Logon took care of many of my family's pets, from the smallest cat to the largest horse, and I honestly believe he loved every minute of it. He will be greatly missed
Gita Bailey
June 7, 2007
Stu was like a father to me after I lost mine. I love him and will miss him dearly...
Linda Wechsler
June 7, 2007
Our hearts go out to the Ligon Family,
We were so sorry to hear about the passing of Dr. Ligon.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers!
Dennis and Linda Wechsler
Linda (Oma) Wechsler
June 7, 2007
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 1998-2007
Nancy Tapager
June 7, 2007
Steuart was such a kind and loving man to his furry patients and their owners. He always went "above the call of duty" to care for all animals. There was no doubt about Steuart's devotion to animals and it was always a joy to see him. I will certainly miss him! My deepest sympathy to Rayne, Steuart's family, and the staff of Lovingston Veterinary. Nancy Tapager, Shipman, Va.
Florence Tillman
June 7, 2007
My Deepest Sympathy Goes To The Family. Dr. Ligon Had Treated A Many Of My Dogs Over The Years. He Will Be A Great Lost To This Community, And All The Pets Out There That He Took So Much Loving Care Of.
Beverley Wood
June 7, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. Ligon's family and friends. May God bless you all, during this time of Sorrow. He will truly be missed by all. The love,care and patience he showed towards so many animals and their owners will always be remembered.
Tina Robertson
June 7, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Ligon. He took care of the many dogs I have had over the years. In recent past I had several very serious complications with beagle and my siberian husky. Stuart was always available and exceedingly helpful. He always worked with me when the cost of treatment pushed my resources. His staff is a reflection of his dedication. Our community and our pets have lost a true champion. It is a comfort to know that he will be waiting when they cross the Rainbow Bridge.
Helene Dodge
June 7, 2007
My heartfelt prayers go out to his wife and family members as well as his dedicated employees. Dr. Ligon was always a avid supporter of my dog obedience classes, kindly steering his clients & their dogs in my direction. His gentleness and concern will be greatly missed.
June 7, 2007
He will be missed so much. Our deepest sympathy to the family.Langden, Scarlett, Hillary and Leslie Mason
Colin Banton
June 7, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Dr Ligon took care of many pets over the years. He was a kind, gentle man. You knew he loved his job and cared for his patients. He was loved by many.
Ray Uttaro
June 7, 2007
To the Family of Steuart,
I am deeply sorry for your loss, Steuart will be missed very much by all he has touched. My prayers and that of the staff of the Nelson County Animal Control are with all of you
Louise Payne
June 6, 2007
My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family.
Steuart took care of my many pets with such kindness and love. Louise
Louise Payne
June 6, 2007
My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family.
Steuart took care of my many pets with such kindness and love. Louise Payne.
Louise Payne
June 6, 2007
My deepest and heartfelt sympathy goes out to Steuart's family. He took care of so many of my pets and dearly loved them. Louise Payne
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