Leona Harland obituary: Leona May Harland, a beloved matriarch and pillar of her community, peacefully departed this life on March 15, 2024, at the age of 91, under the compassionate care of Hospice of Lenawee. Born on March 31, 1932, in Dexter, MI, to Charles August and Lorene Helen Fittler, Leona’s life was one of steadfast love, service, and devotion.
Leona’s journey led her through the halls of Onsted Schools and culminated in her receiving her diploma from Adrian High School. Her life was rich with love, having been married first to Ronald B. Pawson and later to Thomas N. Harland, both of whom preceded her in death. Leona’s heart knew both joy and sorrow, but through it all, she remained a beacon of strength and grace.
During her professional career, Leona served her community with dedication as an employee of the Lenawee County Library. Her passion for literature and learning shone brightly as she played a vital role in the establishment of the Onsted Library in 1991, where she served as the Branch Librarian for 18 years.
Beyond her work, Leona found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. She cherished moments spent with family, especially her grandchildren, who brought endless warmth and happiness to her days. In her leisure time, she delighted in the camaraderie of her card-playing club, finding solace and friendship in each gathering.
In her final years, Leona found comfort and companionship at the Lenawee Medical Care Facility, where her granddaughter Angi and dedicated staff provided her with tender care and affection. Surrounded by loved ones and furry friends, she embraced each day with gratitude and resilience.
Leona leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories, survived by her daughters Kathy Fox and Beth Pawson, grandsons Jimmy (Angi) Pickford and Kelby Pickford, great-grandchildren Ben (Cherokee) Pickford, Mandee Bagley, and Olivia Pickford, as well as four great-great-grandchildren. Though she is reunited with loved ones who preceded her in death, her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Visitation to honor Leona’s life will take place at the Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service begins at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Fritz Kruse. She will be laid to rest in the peaceful embrace of Maple Shade Cemetery in Onsted, a final resting place befitting a woman whose presence brought light to all who knew her.