Donna Epperly Coffman

Donna Lynn Epperly Coffman, 57, of Salem, departed this life on Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at Roanoke Memorial Hospital following a seven-month battle with cancer. She was preceded in death by her father, James Edward "Ed" Epperly; and a host of other relatives, notably her maternal grandmother, Mattie "Granny" Foutz, who was a daily presence throughout Donna's life. Surviving are her devoted mother, Rosella Foutz Epperly; oldest brother, David Eugene Epperly; "the twins" brothers, Timmie Ren Epperly and Dennis Ren Epperly; and sister-in-law of 25 years, Bethany Smith Epperly, wife of Dennis. Nieces and nephews include David's children: Chelsea Dawn Epperly and Zachary Edward Epperly; and Timmie's children: Austin Ren Epperly and Casey Renee Epperly. Olivia Brooke Epperly was born to Chelsea in March, making Donna a proud great-aunt. Other surviving family includes numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins. Also left to cherish Donna's memory is her boyfriend, Lawrence "Scott" Layman. They were constant companions and best friends for 19 years. One of their favorite activities was being together with friends and family at Scott's place in Craig County (aka "the country"). Summer weekends were spent there relaxing by the pool or pond, gardening, listening to music, watching sports, and lots of eating (since Donna was an excellent cook and loved to feed people). "Scott's guys" (his friends and coworkers at Advance Auto) were often the lucky recipients of Donna's hospitality. Scott's entire extended family was also an important part of Donna's life, especially his mother, Shirley Layman; his brother, Mark Layman; his aunt, Barbara Coble; late uncle, A.J. Coble; and their children and grandchildren. Donna was born in Roanoke in 1956. She lived most of her life in Salem and graduated early from Andrew Lewis High School in 1972 at age 16. She then attended Virginia Western CC, for which she paid her own way. She began working at age 12, which required the written permission of her parents. She held several jobs as a teen and young adult, which included the Salem Civic Center, McDonald's, and SuperX. Her chosen career was in the financial industry where she primarily worked as a loan processor. Member One FCU was her employer for the last 12 years. Donna was also a longtime weekend employee of Robin Bennett at his flea market store. It was extremely rare for her to miss work until this illness, and business associates describe her as dedicated, professional, hardworking, loyal, and trusted. Donna's main focus in life was Scott and her family. She spoke to her mother on the phone many times--every single day. She also regularly spoke to her brothers, even though all lived nearby. Additionally, she enjoyed her Parakeets, cooking, shopping, travel, NASCAR, country music (especially Alan Jackson), the pool, Scott's cat Tilley, her "niece dogs" Onyx and Topaz, and Lifetime movies. The children in Donna's life were of special importance. She'd shop for them throughout the summer so that by the start of the school year, they'd have all the supplies they'd need. Donna was the aunt who knew what each child wanted for Christmas or their birthday. And she was always sure to get it-- even the most hard-to-find item. She'd also make mental notes of the adults' favorites things, and during her bargain hunts, she'd purchase the perfect present for each one. Many times she gave a gift for no particular reason or occasion. And if you ever complimented her cooking, she was sure to make that dish again, especially for you. Donna will be sorely missed, and our hearts ache in the absence of her physical presence. But we will reflect on the precious memories we made with her, appreciate the impact she had on us, be grateful for the time we had with her, and look forward to seeing her again some day. So many people have done so many nice things for Donna, for Scott, and for the family. Thank you for your love and support, your prayers, and your kind gifts. One special friend, Barbara Smith, spent countless hours being of service to Donna (in addition to Scott, Rosie, Dennis, and Barbara Coble). She sat by Donna's bedside, holding her hand, speaking encouragement, and bringing comfort. Every one of you have been a blessing. For those assisting with the arrangements, we are so grateful, especially to Bill Jones and the Salem Civic Center. Please join us on Monday, June 16, 2014 in the John M. Oakey & Son Chapel in Salem as we honor Donna's life. The chapel will be open at 1 p.m. if you wish to pay your respects. The service will begin at 2 p.m. and will be officiated by Rev. Carol Johnston of Troutville Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem where Donna will be laid to rest beside her father. Immediately following the burial, the family will receive friends at a reception dinner at the Salem Civic Center Community Room. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com. The Epperly family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, 540-389-5441.Visitation

Monday, June 16th, 2014 1:00pm - 2:00pm,

John M. Oakey & Son Chapel

305 Roanoke Boulevard Salem, Virginia 24153

Service Information

Monday, June 16th, 2014 2:00pm,

John M. Oakey & Son Chapel

305 Roanoke Boulevard Salem, Virginia 24153

Interment Location

Sherwood Memorial Park

1250 East Main Street Salem, Virginia 24153