Leona Mary Vastine, born March 15, 1955, in Kenton, Kentucky, passed away on November 1, 2024, after a courageous battle with Waldenström macroglobulinemia, a rare type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. She was surrounded by her loving sisters until the very end.
Leona embraced life with joy and a deep love for the things that made her happy. She adored the color purple, anything sweet, and was a devoted fan of the show Bluey, Dwight from The Office, The Notorious B.I.G., and Kenny Chesney. She found delight in crossword puzzles, coloring, dancing, making new friends, swimming, and most of all, spending time with her beloved nephews. She had a special place in her heart for animals, especially cats. A devoted Christian, Leona believed in kindness, love, and the power of a good hug—both giving and receiving.
Despite being born with disabilities, Leona accomplished much in her lifetime. She was a caregiver to her siblings and others, always putting their needs before her own. She took pride in her work as a domestic worker, keeping homes and businesses spotless. In 2017, she competed in the Special Olympics, winning gold medals in Floor Hockey and Shot Put, as well as a silver medal in Snowshoeing—a testament to her determination and spirit.
Leona is survived by her sister Jennifer Wilson, her sister Olivia Wilson, Olivia's partner Jeremy Carrillo, and their son Knight Vastine Carrillo; her brother John Wilson, his wife Beth Wilson, and their sons Daniel, Nathaniel, Oliver, and Luke Wilson. She was preceded in death by her siblings Gloria Vastine, Andrew "Andy" Lynn Vastine, Adrian Lee Vastine, and Harvey A. Vastine.
Leona’s warmth, resilience, and boundless love touched the lives of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those she loved.