Leona Draheim English
September 17, 1917 ~ June 26, 2009
Resided in:
Marshall, NC
Leona Draheim English, 91, of Laurel Valley Road, Mars Hill, died peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2009, at her residence.
A native of Marion, North Dakota, Mrs. English was the daughter of the late Leo A. and Cora Trapp Draheim. She was also preceded in death by her husband, John Daniel English, who died in 1991.
Mrs. English graduated from Mankato State Teachers College in Minnesota in 1937, and taught in a one-room schoolhouse before moving south. She was an active member of Abernethy United Methodist Church, where she was a former officer in the United Methodist Women. She was a choir member for 53 years and also Children and Youth Choir Director.
Mrs. English is survived by her daughters, Linda Retzer and husband Larry E., Sylvia D. English, Gail E. Price and husband Carl, all of Mars Hill, and Karen E. Plyler and husband Richard, of Shelby, NC; grandchildren, Daniel and Matthew Retzer, Joshua Byerly, and Laurel Plyler; and six great-grandchildren.
A funeral service for Mrs. English will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 28 at Abernethy United Methodist Church with the Revs. Linda Kelly and Anthony R. Sayer officiating. A private graveside service will take place at the English Family Cemetery.
The family will receive friends in the church sanctuary one hour prior to the service.
Memorials may be made to Abernethy United Methodist Church Music Ministry, 1418 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806.
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Leona, you know you were loved. I’m going to miss my hugging buddy, but it’s wonderful that you are in a better place now. May God Bless you.
Gail,
We are so sorry about your mother, and we’re sorry that we are so far away. We won’t be able to be with you and your family this Sunday because we’re at Yellowstone right now. But, know that you all will be in our thoughts and prayers.
John & Janna
Gail, words cannot express our sadness for you and your entire family. My Daughter Deb and I will keep you all in in our thoughts and prayers. We send an emotional hug to all. Your Mother rests free of earthly tribulations in the presence of her Lord and Savior. May GOD’S mercy bring you Peace.
To Karen, Gail, Sylvia, and Linda. It is hard to sum up in just a few words how much your mom meant to me. She is in all of my fondest childhood memories. I can still hear her laugh and see her marvelous smile. She is now at peace, among the angels, and—I like to imagine, visiting with my mom. May God continue to comfort each one of you. As difficult as these days are, you will begin to find comfort in the memories.
Love to you all. Nancy
We were saddened to learn about Leona’s death. She was in our Mall Walkers group at the Asheville Mall for many years and we dearly loved her. When she walked into the mall our whole morning was cheery and bright. She often spoke of her loving family and her love for her church and music. She will be greatly missed by all who were priviliged to share her friendship and hugs. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.Cecil and Kathy Tallent
Gail, and family. Dick and I were so sorry to hear about Miss Leona. We loved having her at our bell choir performances, she made us do our best. We love you, prayers to you all. Libby and Dick
I worked for Mrs Engish & her Husband At there home in west Ash. they where wonderful people to work for! I am so sorry for your lost! MACK
Gail and family,
Roger and I extend to you our deepest sympathy in the loss of your mother. May God’s blessings and grace give you strength during this difficult time, and may Leona’s loving spirit remain with you always.
Peace and love,
Shirley Parkin
Your mother raised a wonderful daughter, which speaks well of what a wonderful lady she was. I know she will be missed by all of your family & friends; but do celebrate all the good years and memories you shared.
So sorry for the loss of your mother. Haven’t seen you guys since high school days and at Abernathy. Hope all of you find comfort in happy memories in the days to come.
Sincerely,
Jim Freeman
My biggest sorrow in life is that, at my mom’s funeral at Abernathy Methodist, I did not step up and give her the ‘speech’ she deserved after almost 92 yrs. of life. My heart was so broken, I could not speak. Thank you, Groce Funeral Home, for your wonderful support during this time. If still miss her so much!