Laurie Malone

Laurie Ann Malone, 47, of Weber City, VA, formerly of Bismarck, IL, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 1, 2010, at the Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, VA. She was born in Danville, IL, the daughter of Donald and Katherine Blackford. Survivors include her parents, Don and Katie of Danville, Her husband, Terry Malone of Weber City, VA, and two adoptive grandchildren, Andrea and Laurie Tamayo. Her two sisters, Donna Stewart of Ridge Farm, IL, Susan Blackford of Milwaukee, WI, one brother, Jim Blackford of Danville, two nieces, Melissa Blackford, Jessica Hagley, three nephews, Travis Cunningham, Steven, and Eric Blackford also survive her, along with her beloved horses, Button Down Lady, Docs Mitzi Melody, Two Timin Pine, Press For Success, Sportacular, and Cissy. She was a graduate of Bismarck High School, and earned her Bachelors Degree from Eastern Illinois University, where she also enjoyed playing basketball. She was also awarded her Masters Degree from Eastern Illinois in Kinesiology. She worked at ETSU for 18 years as a Professor of Physical Education, working in the student services division teaching both major and non-major classes. She was currently employed at the VA Co-op Extension Services as a Scott County Technician. Laurie was founder of the Scott County Ridin for the Future Horse Club and was instrumental in coaching numerous riders in both English and Western Disciplines. She was an active coach for Ridin for the Future Judging and Hippology Teams as well. She was an extremely generous person, resilient through multiple trials in life. She will be missed by all that knew her. A graveside service will be held to celebrate the Life of Laurie Malone at 11:00am on Saturday, November 6, 2010 at Sunset Memorial Park located at 3901 N Vermilion Street in Danville. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, a Life Celebration Home is handling arrangements. E-mail condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com