Obituary of Lillian B. Schoonover

Lillian B. Schoonover, 99, of the Bath VA Community Living Center, Bath, NY and formerly of Austinburg, PA, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, August 24, 2017 at her home there.

Lillian was born in Austinburg, PA on April 25, 1918, the daughter of Lee and May (Wakley) Schoonover. Raised in Tioga County, she graduated from the former Knoxville High School in 1935. She then earned a degree in education at Mansfield University in 1939 and underwent nursing training at John Hopkins Hospital School of Nursing. She later attended graduate nursing courses at Buffalo State University.

In 1943, Lillian enlisted in the Nurses Corp. of the United States Navy. She served in the South Pacific and later at naval hospitals stateside. She spent many years at the Philadelphia Naval Hospital where she eventually became Teacher Education Coordinator. Lillian rose through the ranks and retired in 1968 as a Lieutenant Commander.

On June 2, 1953, Lillian married Robert Andrew Schoonover. Following their respective retirements, Lillian and Bob returned to their roots in Austinburg. Bob preceded her in death on July 5, 2015.

She belonged to various naval nurses’ organizations and alumni associations from the various schools she had attended. Lillian took great pride in her military service.

Lillian is survived by her niece, Althea NesSmith of Lake Butler, FL, her brother in law, Leon Schoonover of Elkland, PA, , many step nieces and nephews as well as nieces and nephews of her husband Bob and dear friends, Laura and Bill Losinger of Elkland

Lillian was also predeceased by her brother, Hugh Schoonover.

Friends may call on Wednesday, August 30 from 10 am to noon at the H.P. Smith & Son Inc. Funeral Home, 1607 Main St. Woodhull, NY. Funeral services will be held there following visitation at 12 noon with Rev. David Brelo officiating.

Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Austinburg, PA.

Memorials may be made to the Lillian B. Schoonover Scholarship Fund, c/o the Northern Tioga School District, Elkland, PA.