Lois Mead Longfellow, 91, of Morgantown, passed away on Wednesday, June 26, 2019, at her home, surrounded by her loving family on what would have been her and her late husband Don’s 71st wedding anniversary.
She was born in Morgantown on Nov. 5, 1927, the third of six children born to James and Augusta (Kalons) Garletts.
She was raised on the small family farm in Suncrest, where she and her husband Don later returned to build their home and raise their children. Her brothers and their families lived alongside each other, and together they cared for their parents until they passed away.
Music played a central role in the family. She played the violin in her younger years and Don played several instruments. They loved to sing and dance together and were always the first on the dance floor. Their love of music passed down to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she adored and they, her. In later years, she enjoyed taking walks with Don and their dog, Corky.
A woman of strong faith and perseverance, although her vision and health were declining, she never complained and never failed to express her gratitude to those who cared for her.
A sincere thank you from her family to all her doctors, nurses and aids. Also to Care Partners and Amedisys Hospice for their compassionate care and to friends and neighbors for their prayers and concern.
Lois is survived by children Janet Blaker and her husband, Jack, Donald Longfellow Jr. and Patricia Longfellow Olajide; grandchildren Leigh Anne Braham and husband, Chris, Gretchen Silver and Josh Silver, James Springer and wife, Shannon, Christina Springer and David Longfellow and wife, Christine; great-grandchildren Taylor and Emily Silver, Kiarra and Ailani Medley, Jace Springer and Zellia Longfellow. Also surviving are her sister Marguerite Kennedy and sisters-in-law, Lavonne Garletts and Antialle Garletts.
Lois was predeceased by her loving husband Donald Longfellow Sr. and their precious son Michael David; son-in-law Femi Olajide; daughter-in-law Patricia Staggs Longfellow; and siblings Vivian Smith, Donald Garletts, James Garletts and Roy Garletts.
Family and friends will be received at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce St., Morgantown, from 5-8 p.m. on Monday, July 1, and from 10 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday with Chaplin Craig Falkenstine officiating. Interment will follow at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens.
Condolences: www.hastingsfuneralhome.com
