Bertie L. (Fridley) Ownby

A beautiful and cherished earthly life came to a close on Sunday, May 3, 2026. Bertie heard her Master’s call and she answered at the age of 87, at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, who lovingly provided care for her the past several months. Bertie was born to the late Daney C. Fridley and Emma Mae (McCutcheon) Fridley in Augusta Springs, Augusta County, Virginia. She has earned her wings and is reunited with the love of her life, whom she has missed dearly.

She was preceded in death by her sweetheart, husband Donald F. Ownby; her parents; her sisters, Louise Crawford and Edith Fridley; her brothers, Russell Fridley and Curtis Fridley.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory; her daughters, Glenda M. Ownby and Donna O. Lawhorne, both of Waynesboro; a special and devoted son-in-law, David A. Lawhorne; granddaughter Ashley Lawhorne and husband, Alex Childs; grandson Trey Lawhorne and partner, Kaitlyn Quick; great-grandson Charlie A. Childs; sister, Fay Fisher; five nieces and six nephews.

She was a high school graduate, housewife and stay at home mother. Bertie was gifted in baking, cooking, sewing and knitting. She frequently shared those gifts with her church and the community. Throughout her life she was a member of Blue Ridge Chapel Church of the Brethren, the Blue Ridge Chapel Women’s Fellowship, the Preston L. Yancey Auxiliary, and was an active member in the Barren Ridge Community Center. She was well-known at any gathering for her chicken and dumplings.

Interment will be private, followed a Celebration of Life at 12:30pm, Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Blue Ridge Chapel Church of the Brethren, 19 Brown’s Lane, Waynesboro, conducted by Pastor Mike Woods.

Donna and David will open their home, 204 Madrid Rd. Waynesboro, to receive friends and family Wednesday, May 6th. Guests are welcome to stop by anytime throughout the day, or in the days following the service.

Share memories and condolences at www.charltonandgroomefuneralhome.com.

The family is being served by the Charlton and Groome Funeral Home, Fishersville.

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