From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
James Robert Heilman, 85, Vero Beach
May 24, 1939 ~ December 09, 2024
James Robert Heilman, age 85, passed away December 9, 2024 at VNA Hospice House.
He was born May 24, 1939 in Delta, Ohio to the late Floyd and Cleo Heilman. He moved to Vero Beach from Sylvania, Ohio.
Mr. Heilman served in the Ohio Air National Guard.
He retired in 2005, from Gedois Paving and Excavating, Toledo, Ohio after 20 years.
He was a member of the Methodist Church of Sylvania, Ohio and a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 56 years, Caroline Anderson Heilman of Vero Beach and Sylvania, Ohio; sisters, Ruth Noonan of Sylvania, Ohio and Shirley Ostrander of Vero Beach and Sylvania, Ohio; brother, Don Heilman of Vero Beach and Sylvania, Ohio.
He was predeceased by Betty Szalkowski and Roger Heilman.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to VNA Hospice Foundation, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Anna Lee (Squires) Grant, 82, Fellsmere
June 15, 1942 ~ December 17, 2024
On December 17, 2024, Anna Lee (Squires) Grant passed on. She was surrounded by her husband and both her children also present was her granddaughter, Rachel.
Anna Lee was born in Miami to Arthur Lee and Mary Edith Squires on June 15, 1942. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and sister. She mothered any who needed and wanted her care.
Anna Lee graduated from Edison High School in 1960. She married her high school sweetheart Michael C. Grant (Mickey) on December 9, 1961. She and Mickey remained married for just over 63 years. Only death parted them.
In 1963, she and her first born joined her husband in France for 2 years while he served his country (U.S. Army). Anna Lee and mickey returned from France in 1965. Anna Lee was carrying her soon to be daughter in her oven.
Anna Lee and Mickey resided in S.W. Ranches, Broward County, Fl. for about 45 years until building in Crawfordville, Fl. About five years ago they moved to Fellsmere, Fl. to be with family.
During retirement both Anna and Mickey loved the RV life. They traveled throughout North America to include three separate trips from Florida to Alaska and back.
Anna was predeceased by her sister, Mary Eunice Squires.
Anna Lee is survived by her husband Mickey; brother Patrick Dowling (MaryJo); son Michael L. Grant (Cristina); daughter Suzanne Rahinsky (David); grandsons Michael J. Grant (Kelly), Kyle L. Grant, Lee M. Claire (Casey), Ryan M. Rahinsky (Michal), and granddaughter Rachel M. Moncado (Marcelle). Last but certainly not the least are the great grandchildren Delaney, Everly, Marshall, Charlotte, Theodore, and Leah. I can’t end this without special mention to out daughter in love Maribel Scarnecchia.
A celebration of life will take place on January 4th, 2024. Friends and Family will be received at the Grant home between 12:00 to 4:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers donate to the Salvation Army or Womens in Distress.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Robert Hugh Geiger, 95, Vero Beach
September 27, 1929 ~ December 22, 2024
Robert Hugh Geiger, 95, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on December 22, 2024, at his home in Vero Beach, Florida. Born on September 27, 1929, in Charleston, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Aubrey Hugh Geiger and Grace Moore Geiger.
Robert was predeceased by his beloved wife of 65 years, Virginia Lee Faircloth Geiger, who passed away in 2013 in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. He is survived by his son, Robert Hugh Geiger Jr., of Kennesaw, Georgia, and two daughters, Priscilla Plank-Sammons and Virginia Lee Geiger, both of Vero Beach, Florida. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren, seven of whom survive him, twenty-two great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins in South Carolina.
Robert enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve in 1947 and served honorably until his discharge in 1957. He was assigned to the Naval Air Station in Charleston. A talented athlete, he also played minor league baseball and devoted time to coaching youth baseball teams. His early years of employment included managerial positions with Colonial Grocery Stores, Executone Intercom Systems, and as an Electronics Technician with West Virgina Pulp and Paper Company all in the Charleston, South Carolina area.
In 1962, Robert and his family relocated from Charleston to Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, where he began a 30-year career at Pratt & Whitney in the Government Engines and Space Propulsion Division. He worked on programs for the United States Defense Department and NASA including projects for the moon missions and the space shuttle. Robert’s department received awards for the development and testing of jet and rocket engine designs. Outside of work, he was an active community member, serving as President of the Riviera Beach High School Band Boosters, and was active in the St. George’s Episcopal Church in Rivera Beach, Florida.
After retiring in 1992, Robert and Virgina traveled and enjoyed camping. In 2013, he moved to Vero Beach, Florida, where he remained active in the community. A dedicated supporter of the Vero Beach High School Fighting Indians Band, Robert played a key role in the procurement and design of the band’s 55-foot equipment transport trailer. He frequently traveled with the band to assist with logistical operations and cherished his interactions with band members and parents.
A memorial service is planned for the summer of 2025 in Charleston, with details to be announced in the coming weeks. Donations in Robert’s memory may be made to the Fighting Indians Band Boosters, Inc., 1707 16th Street, Vero Beach, Florida 32960, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Lyle William Craig, 46, Vero Beach
February 07, 1978 ~ December 25, 2024
Lyle William Craig, age 46, passed away on December 25, 2024, at home in Vero Beach, Florida.
Lyle was born in Hopkinsville, Kentucky to Richard and Mary Craig.
Prior to moving to Vero Beach, Florida Lyle worked at Grupo Antonlin in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.
Lyle was a member of Bellview Baptist Church.
He graduated from Western Kentucky University.
Survivors include his sons Hunter Blake and Payton Blake; daughter Ainsley Blake of Elkton, Ky; granddaughters Arabella Blake and Lilliana Blake of Elkton, Ky; mother Mary Ann Craig of Elkton, Ky; brothers Ryan Craig (Jenni) of Lexington, Ky and Casey Craig (Beth) of Elkton, Ky.
Lyle was predeceased by his father Richard Craig, grandparents JR and Polly Craig, and Owen & Esie Martin.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Stephen Robert Barclay, 77, Vero Beach
April 26, 1947 ~ December 23, 2024
Stephen Robert Barclay, 77, of Vero Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 23, 2024. He was born on April 26, 1947, in Kalamazoo, MI, the son of Robert and Shirley Barclay. Steve graduated from Portage Central High School. After graduation, he joined the United States Navy and served on the USS Theodore E. Chandler, receiving a Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Star.
On May 9, 1975, he married Beverly, and together they lived in the Kalamazoo, MI area. During their time in Michigan, he was employed at Interkal for over 25 years. In 1994, the couple relocated to Georgia, where he worked for the HE Hodge Company for over 15 years before retiring. After retirement, Steve and Bev moved to Vero Beach, FL.
Steve deeply appreciated classic cars, including his beloved 1965 Corvette, which he owned for nearly 30 years. An avid fan of NASCAR, he attended several races in person and rarely missed a televised event. He and Bev also shared an abundance of adventures on their personalized Honda Gold Wing motorcycle, including many enjoyable trips with cherished friends Doug and Lisa and Steve’s son and his wife. In the evening, Steve could often be found with Bev on their porch, enjoying conversation and their favorite music on his reel-to-reel system while he demonstrated true mastery of his charcoal grill. From pool parties with a crowd to quiet dinners with his love, Bev, his favorite moments were those shared with family and friends.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Shirley Barclay. He is survived by his loving wife, Beverly Barclay; his son Stephen (Wendy) Barclay; grandson Joshua (Desiree) Barclay; great-granddaughters Rylynn and Teagan; and his siblings David Barclay of Portage, MI; Wendy (Sam) Thigpen of Charlotte, NC; and Gail (Phillip) Friedrick of Traverse City, MI; as well as many nieces and nephews.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials in Steve’s memory may be directed to a veteran charity of your choice.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Daniel H. Murray, 70, Vero Beach
September 21, 1954 ~ December 23, 2024
Daniel H. Murray, 70, of Vero Beach, FL, and Southampton, NY, passed peacefully at his home on Monday, December 23, 2024. He was born in Port Washington, NY, to Robert ‘Red’ and Barbara (Waters) Murray (both predeceased). Daniel grew up in Upper Montclair and later resided in Watermill, NY, for many years with his family before moving to Vero Beach, FL.
He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Janet (Yager) Murray, and his brother, Robert L. Murray.
Daniel is survived by his two daughters, Jill Draycott and her husband Justin of Brightwaters, NY, and Erin Murray Spencer and her husband Ryan of Whitefish, MT, as well as his beloved granddaughter, Julie Draycott, who referred to him as Pop Pop Dan.
He is also survived by two brothers, Pete Murray and his wife Ann of Poway, CA, and Patrick Murray and his wife Meg of Chatham, NJ; two sisters, Sharon Murray and partner Kari Kristiansen of Rocky Point, NY and Cathleen Black and her husband David of Livingston, NJ; as well as beloved nieces and nephews: Ryan Murray, Meghann Del Guercio, Shannon Murray Thomas Johnson, Dillon Murray, Joseph Murray, Haley Murray, Jake Murray, and Maggie Murray as well as four great-nephews, Michael and Max Murray and AJ and Cameron Del Guercio.
The restaurant career that he so loved started at MYπ in Hicksville, NY; he eventually landed on the East End of Long Island, managing many different restaurants. The ever-popular Fairway Restaurant, located at the Poxabogue Golf Course in Sagaponack, NY, where he was known for his energetic smile and welcoming personality, has been his second home for the last 35+ years. He could be found playing golf or fishing the seas when he was not enjoying the restaurant patrons.
Family and friends are welcome to attend a celebration of the Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 8, at the Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Church in Bridgehampton, NY.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Western Golf Association Evans Scholars Foundation (wgaesf.org –Memorials and Honorariums).
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
John Thomas Romano Jr., 60, Vero Beach
August 07, 1964 ~ December 29, 2024
It is with an abundance of sadness that we announce the passing of John Thomas Romano, Jr at the VNA Hospice House on December 29, 2024, at the age of 60, he was surrounded by his loving wife, daughters, and longtime friend.
John was born in Beaver Falls, PA August 7, 1964, to John and Laura (Gohering) Romano. He is survived by his loving wife Debra Kay Romano, daughters Sarah Kay Romano, and Jennifer Lauren Romano, father John T. Romano Sr of Beaver Falls, PA, sister Crystal (James R) Presto of Cartersville GA. Nieces, nephew, Aunt, cousins, brother and sister in-law, and Great nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his mother Laura Romano and his brother William Romano.
John was a Graphic Designer for over 30 years, working at various companies then becoming an entrepreneur owning and operating his own business, until returning to PA to be a caregiver to his father and working at the Black Hawk Golf Course. John was always very dedicated to his family, throughout the girl’s childhood he was their photographer capturing all the special moments. He loved music, cooking with his wife, model trains, and being with his family and friends. His love and laughter will never be forgotten.
A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later time.
A Gofund me account has been set up for donations in lieu of flowers to help the family with expenses. https://gofund.me/d04b7984
Arrangements are made by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Joseph Anthony Torres, 39
July 23, 1985 ~ December 30, 2024
Joseph Anthony Torres, 39 years of age, passed away on December 30th, 2024 in Vero Beach, Florida.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Riverside Cafe on Sunday, January 5th, 2024. Family and friends are requested to meet under the pavilion in front of the restaurant promptly at 4:00 PM.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Connie Lee Pederson, 91, Palm Bay
October 14, 1933 ~ December 15, 2024
Connie Lee Pederson, age 91, passed away December 15, 2024 at Life Care Center of Palm Bay.
She was born October 14, 1933 in Elwood, Indiana to the late Samuel and Madge Litsey. She moved to Barrington, Illinois in 1951 and later moved to Vero Beach, Florida.
She enjoyed her many years of work with Indian River Memorial Hospital.
Survivors include her daughter, Lorrie Scott; sons, Frank “Gus” Pederson, III, Eric Pederson, and Phillip Pederson.
A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at the Vero Beach Heritage Center, 2140 14th Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
