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Dana Chewning Obituary

Dana Alexis Chewning, of Vinton, Va., our beautiful and amazingly talented daughter, sister, and friend, left us on Tuesday, August 18, 2009, and went to be with her Father in Heaven. She grew up in Vinton, Va., and graduated with honors from William Byrd High School. She was an honor student at James Madison University where she majored in psychology and minored in dance. Her lifelong love for dance was only equaled by her love for her boyfriend, Richard Carper. She always treasured time with her very special friends, Fallon, Kayla, and Jacklyn. She is survived by her mother and father, Donna and Billy Chewning Jr.; her brother, Dustin; her sister and brotherin-law, Amber and Ben Gilliam; grandparents, Jean and Bill Chewning Sr., and Gerald and Doris Clark; aunts and uncles, Brenda Hale, Ricky and Kim Clark, Stevie Clark, Randy Clark, and Karen and Tommy Wood; many cousins; and special family friend, Nancy Langley. Family and friends will be received on Thursday, August 20, 2009, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Oakey's Vinton Chapel, 540-982-2221. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Friday, August 21, 2009, at the Church of The Holy Spirit, 6011 Merriman Road, Roanoke, Va. with a graveside service at Mountain View Cemetery in Vinton. A reception will follow after the burial at the Church of The Holy Spirit. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Angel Flights at Angelflightmidatlantic.org or to the Church of the Holy Spirit in memory of Dana.

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

Published by Roanoke Times from Aug. 20 to Aug. 21, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Dana Chewning

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Richelle Price

August 27, 2009

I am honored to have taught Dana in my dance classes. She was such a sweet girl and an amazing dancer. I have spoken of her talent often throughout the years.
May your family find peace during this difficult time - you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Tracey Wheeler

August 26, 2009

Dana always, always smiled, even thou she felt bad. She always asked about the other kids we know. It was a pleasure to know her. I know she is dancing in heaven.

Lee Gilliam

August 26, 2009

Dear Chewning family:
I deeply regret that I have not had the opportunity to meet Dana (yet) but my family always paints such a wonderful picture of who she IS ! Our Lord has already taught and proven to us that we need not speak about her in past tense; Dana has not died; there is no loss, or passing; just a brief separation. Please take comfort that she now has the gift of eternal life in a safe and perfect world where no harm or pain will ever come to her. The bible teaches us that we are not of this world and that this earth is not our home. Dana has now simply walked through the door of Heaven that lets us back into our real home. Many people have come and gone in this world but not so many will leave such a great legacy of courage, hope, love, kindness, and most of all faith that is touching so many lives in an never-ending way. Dana is making a difference to everyone who now knows her; that is her legacy for this world. Our time on earth goes by so very quickly that before you know it she will be greeting you back home and you will hold her again. I am praying that God will quickly comfort you and help you endure the amount of time that you will be away from her until you are able to be with her again. Be encouraged that this is not the end; but the continuation of Dana’s life with many new and happy experiences yet to come for an eternity. This is the promise of our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ! Please introduce her to me if you should get home before I do.

Your brother in Christ,
(Ben & Amber’s brother/brother-in-law)

August 24, 2009

Billy, Donna, Dustin, Amber & Ben,

Please accept our deepest condolences and know that you are all in our prayers.

Marks-Tiller Insurance Agency

DJ & Angela Ross

August 24, 2009

Our prayers for you and your family as you go through such a difficult time!

Brothers and Sisters in Christ ~ The Ross Family

Kaley Thacker & Becky Meador

August 23, 2009

There are no words to ease this pain, just know that you are in many prayers. Dana was a beautiful, brave young lady who blessed many lives.

Brooke Altizer

August 23, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. We all know Dana is dancing in heaven and is free from all pain but will be sadly missed by all. I will be praying for you during this time of grief.

Brooke (Clayman)

Debbie Parker Graham

August 23, 2009

Donna and Billy,
How sorry I was to hear about your daughter. At times like this there are no appropriate words but my heart goes out to you. Take comfort in knowing there are prayers holding you up.

MaryAnn Rexrode

August 21, 2009

Chewning family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Kim Smith

August 21, 2009

Billy and family -

I am so very sorry for the loss of your daughter. May the hand of God guide you through your grief while holding your daughter close to him.

Raymond and Pat Stanley

August 21, 2009

To the Chewning Family

Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and will be with you in the days to
come. Our deepest sympathy.
God Bless

Tina Ferrari

August 21, 2009

My thoughts and Prayers go out to you all in this time. The world has lost a beautiful girl. Dana was simply the best. Always made me smile. Always had time to talk. Was one of the sweetest people I will ever meet.

Paige Hickey

August 21, 2009

Donna, My prayers are with you right now. I cannot imagine your pain and grief. I pray that the knowledge that Dana is totally healed and is no longer in any pain can be some small comfort to you. She is perfect right now.

My love and continued prayers.

Mark Chewning

August 21, 2009

Donna, Billy and Family,
We are all saddened to hear about Dana's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. We can see from all of the wonderful things that have been said about her that she was loved and admired by everyone she touched. I know our daughter enjoyed finding her "Cousin" on face book and communicating with her the last couple of years.

Mark, Karen, and Maren Chewning

The Lafons & Steve Grubb

August 21, 2009

We are so sorry to hear about your loss.Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow!She will be sadly
missed but never forgotten.Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Steve,Bonnie,Brenna & Brad Lafon
Steve Grubb

Debra Pratt

August 21, 2009

I am so so sorry. I will be praying for your family this morning.

Todd Bailey

August 21, 2009

Billy and Family,

I was saddended to hear of Dana's passing. You have been in our thoughts and prayers.

Todd, Stephanie and Cameron Bailey

Chris Wade

August 21, 2009

Billy we are so sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless!
Roger & Chris Wade

August 21, 2009

To the friends and family of Dana, I am so sorry for your loss. Dana was such a sweet and wonderful student. She brought joy to everyone she spent time with. She will be trully missed by all but, I know that she is dancing her heart out in heaven. Mrs. Behymer (Vinton, Va)

Carolyn and Dave Barnhart

August 21, 2009

Billy and Donna & Families,

We are so sorry to hear about Dana. I was amazed at the entries in the on-line guest book. I know you are very proud of the wonderful things that were said. She was a great inspiration to all! You definately have a lot of great memories to cherish! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

August 21, 2009

Billy,Donna & Family...

Just know that your are in our hearts and prayers. We are so sorry about Dana's passing. May God wrap his arms around you and carry you through your grief. Love to you all.

~David, Valerie & family

Ricky and Wanda Sanderson

August 21, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Billy and family. May God comfort you and your family during this difficult time.

Barry & Teresa Adams

August 21, 2009

Billy and family, we are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. If there is anything we can do please let us know.

Jocelyn Holdren

August 21, 2009

If we could have one wish, it would be to have you here with us. We miss you and love you more than words or tears can express.

Ann & Keyana Phelps

August 21, 2009

A while back my brother Richard Carper Jr came to visit me and I hadnt seen him in what felt like forever. He had told me he was bringing his girlfriend so we could all meet her. We were worried what kind of woman he was bringing to meet us. When Dana arrived we felt a warmth and glow about her that was contagious and we felt like we knew her forever. My mother, daughter, brother Barry and myself will cherish that day always. We had always hoped she would make it back for another visit. She was very mature, intellegent and caring.
I am very sorry for your families loss. May God be with your family. I know Dana has to be an Angel and I am sure she will be watching over you Junior.

August 21, 2009

I went to high school with Dana, though never really talked to her, but I do know she was a very strong person, and always kept a smile on her face. My prayers and love go out to her family.

Jennifer Carpenter

August 20, 2009

Billy, Donna, Dustin, Amber,
I have sent many prayers for your family. This verse came to me once I recieved the news...
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" 2 Timothy 4:7 Those words describe Dana perfectly. She fought the fight, she finished the race and she is rewarded in heaven. What a strong young lady! We have all been blessed to know her! We will miss her greatly!
Love you guys,
Jennifer (Harrison)

August 20, 2009

Billy, Donna, Amber and Dustin:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you.

Amber Snider

August 20, 2009

Im so sorry to hear about your loss. Dana was a good dance friend of mine and never met a stranger. Everyday she came in with a big smile on her face and was willing to help anyone in a blink of an eye. she was a very talented young lady. She will be missed very much. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

gail montuori

August 20, 2009

Donna, I am so sorry for your loss of that precious child. Words fail me at this time, but you are a very strong person..and have proved that many times in your life. Hold Dustin for me. Gail Montuori

SHARON WEBB

August 20, 2009

TO BILLY,DONNA AND FAMILY AND KAREN AND TOMMY.SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR LOSS.IWENT TO SCHOOL WITH BILLY AND I THINK DONNA TOO.KAREN AND TOMMY I WENT TO SCHOOL WITH YOU TOO AND YOU WHERE FRIENDS WITH MY SISTER AND BPOTHER=IN=LAW. SHARON ST.CLAIR WEBB AND MY HUSBAND MIKE WEBB GOD BLESS YOU

Samantha Fitzgerald

August 20, 2009

Dana, you were a true inspiration for everyone! Your strength and determination were admirable. While you are out of our lives for now, you will never be forgotten! We love you!

August 20, 2009

We are so saddened to hear of Dana's passing. You have been in our thoughts and prayers and will continue to be. Sam and Terri Cundiff

August 20, 2009

We are so sorry to hear about for loss, she was a good friend to us all.My prayers are with you and your family.

* empire *

Ratcliffe Family

August 20, 2009

Occasionally we are graced with the presence of an earth bound angel. They are unable to stay with us for long, but while they do, they bring unprecendented joy and happiness to all they touch. While they are here, we bask in their goodness and marvel at their contribiutions to the world. When they leave, we are left with the devastation that comes with losing such a wonderful being....the earth bound angels are not ours to keep. They are ours to enjoy, learn from, and behold until they return home.
Dana was truly this and so much more.
May God watch over you and keep you in his loving care during this time.
Our Love and Prayers, Sherry, Tommy, and Serena

August 20, 2009

So sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Mollie Prillaman, Christiansburg, VA

Glenn & Janet Harris

August 20, 2009

Donna and family,

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Dana was a special young lady. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Adam Lyon

August 20, 2009

From the little I knew about Dana, I know she will be missed by a vast amount of people, including myself. You're all in my thoughts and prayers.

Tom Butler

August 20, 2009

My thoughts are with you, Billy, and your family at this time of sorrow.

August 20, 2009

Dear Chewning Family,
With a heavy heart we are sorry for the passing of Dana. She was a very brave and inspiring young lady. If there is anything we can do for you please don't hesitate to contact us.

Prayers for you family.

Officers & Members
Red Knights Motorcycle Club Chapter #9

August 20, 2009

Billy, Donna and Family
Our family is deeply sadden by your loss of Dana. We will pray for your family and as always if there is anything we can do for you please ask.

Greg & Tammy-Lee St.Clair

Chelsea Clark

August 20, 2009

Donna Kay, Billy, Amber, and Dustin:
I am so very sorry for the loss. I think about your family all the time, and I will always remember the family get togethers where Dana was always smiling, laughing, and being goofy. I will continue to miss Dana, and I still love you all very much.
Your Niece,
Chelsea Clark

Faye Owen Caldwell

August 20, 2009

Our cousin, Pat Owen, called me last night to tell me about the loss of your beautiful daughter. I know how hard this is. We lost our son a little over a year ago. You are never ready to let them go. It is our hope that we will meet again in Heaven. May God hold you close as you go though this trying time.

Bernice Parker

August 20, 2009

You are dancing with the angels. We love you. Bernice Parker,Kendra and Amber

Lenore & Mark Paradis

August 20, 2009

We are sorry to hear about your family’s loss. Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Cathy & Mike Semones

August 20, 2009

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Megann Reynolds

August 20, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family right now. Dana I know your are dancing your heart out with the angels now. You will be loved and missed forever!!!!

Stacey Wise

August 20, 2009

Dana will be deeply missed and I only met her a couple of times and I was blessed by meeting her. I know that she meant the world to Fallon and your loss is Heavens gain. God be with you during this time.

Ashley Jenkins

August 20, 2009

My prayers are with you. He will ease your pain with time. Dana will be missed by all. She always had such a beautiful smile and wonderful personality. Rest in peace, Dana

Amanda Miller

August 20, 2009

Amber and Donna,
We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Dana. We loved knowing her and working with her at our store. She always had a smile on her face and was always so kind to everyone that she had contact with. She will be missed by us all.

August 20, 2009

Dear Donna,Billy and Family,

Dean and I just do not know what to say. We are so very sorry. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Love to all,
ann and dean cranwell

August 20, 2009

Donna and Billy,
I am so sorry about Dana. She truly did grow up to be quite a beautiful woman. Please know that my thoughts are with you..

Donna Parker

Jodi Witt

August 20, 2009

Amber -

I am so sorry to hear about your families loss. Please let me know if you need anything. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.

Love, Jodi (Guidi) Witt

Mickey/Patricia Mixon

August 20, 2009

Our prayers are with you for the loss of your lovely daughter, Dana. May God Bless you and keep you in His loving hands....

Marty and Terri (Chewning) Shrewsbury

August 20, 2009

Billy, Donna and family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of great loss. Dana was a phenomenal young lady and a cherished member of this family.

Wendy Pruitt

August 20, 2009

Dearest Donna and Family,
So sorry for your beautiful daughter Dana . My heart goes out to your family and love ones . I know you will see her again but you will miss her so much . prays be with you,
Wendy

Heather Roy

August 20, 2009

Sweet sweet Dana... may you dance with the angels now (and even teach them a thing or two).

Your peace, warmth, kind heart, and embracing love will live on forever in the hearts of all who love you... of all that were blessed to know you.

All my love, "Cousin" Heather

Cathy Fielder

August 20, 2009

Dearest Donna and Family,
I have walked in your shoes so I understand , and I,m so sorry.Please Call me anytime ,400-6667.

Love and thinking of all of you ,my Payer are with you, Love Cathy

McKinzi (Breeding) Dillon

August 20, 2009

May god hold you in his hands during this time of need. Just seeing Dana smile could put a smile on anyones face. She will be greatly missed by many.

Cindy Shelor

August 20, 2009

Donna and family, I am soo sorry for your loss. I know your loss and feel the pain as I did 3 yrs ago for Ryan. We just shouldnt have to do this and it hurts more than anyone can know. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

August 20, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss, My thoughts are with you and your family. Although no words can really help to ease the pain may the comfort of god be with you and your family now and in the days to come. Dana is in heaven dancing with the angels and watching over all of us, she will be missed dearly. She was truly a beautiful girl and one of many talents. "God saw you getting 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, dancing feet at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best."


Alyce Baker ~Dancers Dreams Family

August 20, 2009

I know Dana is dancing with the angels. She was such a beautiful person and a more beautiful dancer. I will never forget her solo performance at one of our recitals even after what she was going through. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Vicki Baker, Dancers Dreams family

Betty anderson

August 20, 2009

To the Chewning Family, I send my deepest sympathy and love. With God's help he will carry you through this and one day you will again join Dana.
You are in my thoughts and prayers, may God bless you!!!!

Charlie Shull

August 20, 2009

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. My families thoughts and prayers are with you.

Kent Henson

August 20, 2009

To the Chewning and Woods families, My deepest condolences to you all. I will keep you in my thoughts.

Judy Wright

August 20, 2009

I am sorry to say that i didnt know Dana that well i only met her a couple of times at the edge, what i do know of her is that every time i seen her she was always glowing and very upbeat about everything, she holds a special place in everyone that ever made contact with her such a bright and lovely young lady. also very brave and never let anything or anyone get in her way. She will be greatly missed.

Sara Ruhlman

August 20, 2009

Although I only knew Dana a very short time, it was certainly evident what a special person she was. She rose above the challenges she faced in such a positive and inspiring way. My heart goes out to her family and friends~many thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this difficult time.

Genni Pratt

August 20, 2009

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Carolyn Weaver

August 20, 2009

I just heard of your loss late last night. I have been thinking about you and praying for you ever since. Please accept my deepest sympathy.

Love, Carolyn Weaver (your cousin)

Whitney Stump

August 20, 2009

I am so very sorry for your loss. Dana was a very dear friend to our family, especially my brother Josh. She will be greatly missed. May God be with you and your family in this time of sadness and need. God Bless

Nikki Sowers

August 20, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I know Dana is dancing in heaven and looking down at us. We love you Dana!!!!

Julie Chewning Creasy

August 20, 2009

Billy,Donna,Dustin,Amber& Ben
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. What a sweet smiling face. That is what I think of when I think of Dana. She always was smiling and that smile made you automatically smile when you looked at her. I know that the angels were singing and smiling and she entered the gates of heaven. Love to all of you and keeping you in our prayers for comfort and peace.

Shelby & Brittany Main

August 20, 2009

Donna, Billie and Family
Please know that you are in our every thought and prayer. May you all find comfort in knowing that Dana is no longer suffering any pain. We all know that she is dancing the greatest dance ever on streets of pure gold. Donna if you need anything please let us know. We will always be only a phone call away.

Sandy & John Ruth

August 20, 2009

Donna and Billy,

Words cannot express our sympathy for you and your entire family at this time. God bless you and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Wes & Susan Meadows

August 20, 2009

Words can't express our sympathy for you during this emotional time. The pain you must be in, no one should have to go through. May God give you peace. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.

August 20, 2009

Dana was very beautiful and such a friendly person. She is even more beautiful now in Heaven. I am very sorry for your loss.

Karey Gray, a friend from Dancers Dreams

Patty Ellis

August 20, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of sadness.

Katie Breeding

August 20, 2009

Dana was one of the strongest people i have ever met, she could move mountains. The memory of her will be with us forever. You all are in our prayers.

Ashly Kirk

August 20, 2009

Dana will be dearly missed. She was a true sweet heart and touched many lives. I know she is in a better place now and is up in heaven with God, probably dancing with the angels!

Lynne and Jordan Asbury

August 20, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Dorothy Baltz

August 20, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Tom Beheler

August 20, 2009

Dana, I was so sad to hear of your passing. I remember our flight to Boston and how positive you were. It is hard to believe you are gone. I wish I could have taken you back again!!

August 20, 2009

God will give you the grace to get through this. You all are loved and in our prayers.
Love you
Todd and Kelley Hambrick

Sandy Richardson

August 20, 2009

Dear Donna & family,
We are so sad today to hear about the loss of Dana. She was so beautiful and an amazing dancer. Our memories of her at Dancers Dreams will be forever cherished. Holly loved her so much, and she will always treasure the many memories. She still has dance pictures in her room with Dana in them. Watching past dance recital videos will now have a new and special meaning. I can't begin to imagine your loss, but please know that we are shedding tears along with you. We also take comfort in knowing that her battle is now over. We pray that God will bring you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Remember "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened."

Amber Reed

August 20, 2009

Dana - you were an amazing person. Whenever you walked in the room it lit up. You have been such a blessing to Fallon and a part of our family. We will always have a place in our hearts for you. You are the strongest and most brave person I know. We love you!

Shelby & Brittany Main

August 20, 2009

Donna, Billy and Family
I am so sorry to hear the news about Dana just know that our every thought and prayer is with you at this difficult time. I know that Dana is dancing the most beautiful dance ever right now in those streets of gold. Donna please call if you need anything.

James and Bonnie Short

August 20, 2009

Dana was one of the bravest and happiest young women I have ever met. I feel privileged to have known her. Our prayers, love, and sympathy go out to the entire family. May you find comfort in God as Dana did.

Whitney Curtiss

August 20, 2009

"She flew up to Heaven on the wings of angels, By the clouds and stars and passed where no one sees, And she walks with Jesus and her loved ones waiting, And I know she's smiling saying, Don't worry 'bout me" -Alan Jackson "Sissy's Gone"

I went to high school with Dana, we never really talked but I looked up to her more than most knew. With everything she was going thru, she still walked around with her head held high & a smile on her face. She was truly a hero to many people, she has shown me what hope really is. Heaven has a new angel & she's watching over all of us. My heart, prayers & deepest sympathy goes out to the family & friends of Dana. Thank you Dana for being my hero. You will be in our hearts, forever.

God Bless<3

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