Leona was born on December 5, 1937, in Ramseytown, PA, to the late Irvin and Mae (Henry) Swonger. She graduated with the class of 1955 from the Summerville High School; she was a Tomahawk cheerleader.
On July 27, 1956, she married Herald Keth; Herald preceded her in passing on June 24, 2011.
Leona’s first job was working on the line at Sylvania in Brookville. She also worked on the line at Jenson in Punxsutawney. Leona also spent time as a waitress for the TA Truck Stop, and for the Gold Eagle Restaurant. She was very supportive of the military and specifically the Wounded Warrior Project.
Children held a special place in her heart as she loved babies and supported the Smile Train charity as well. She loved square dancing and previously would dance at the Ramseytown Grange. As a young girl she started a reputation for being a tough girl, regardless of her size, this followed her throughout her life; feisty and a fierce defender of her family is appropriate in trying to explain Leona’s love for them. She was a little miracle that survived small cell cancer. She took the treatment and mental anguish associated with the cancer gracefully, full of pride. She felt that if the little children can endure it, so could she.
Leona was a homebody at heart, enjoying things like gardening vegetables, country western music, being there for her children and grandchildren, baking, reading poetry, and frequenting yard sales. Although she loved her home, she was not shy and would talk to anyone. She was an inspiration to her family and friends, and the memories she helped to make with her family will be cherished for years to come.
Leona is survived by three daughters, Vicki L. (Randy) Silvis, Tracy M. (Guy Jr.) Siverling; Denise C. (Danny) Howell; two sisters; Janet (Bill) Delp, Dorothy “Jane” (Stan) Fleming; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband and parents, Leona is preceded in death by one brother; Ray Swonger; and one sister; Bonnie Bortz.
Family and friends will be received on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the McKinney – d’Argy Funeral Home, ltd, 345 Main St., Brookville, PA. A funeral service will immediately follow the viewing, beginning at 4:00 p.m. and officiated by Rev. Glenn McQuown.
Memorial contributions may be made in her name to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Online condolences and other information may be found at www.mckinneydargy.com.