We are honoring our beautiful mother, Toni Durette Perry, who was revered for her unwavering love for family and friends, unyielding positivity, and strength. She passed away on February 8, 2025. Born on January 2, 1945, in Coronado, CA, Toni was known for her larger-than-life personality, loving spirit, and the undeniable light she brought into the world.
Toni will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Donald Perry; her beloved children, Shawn Perry (Charles Nagelvoort) and Leslie Shea Perry (Jason Brown); her grandson, Jarrett Sturgill; her sister, Bobbie Smoot; her brother, Paul Diehl III (Julie Diehl); her sister-in-law, Mary Anne Durette; her niece, Kelsie Mast (Brent Mast); and her nephews, Paul Diehl IV (Riley Diehl) and Kevin Durette, as well as her many special cousins.
She is reunited in rest with her mother, Mary Jean Diehl; her father, Robert Joseph Durette; her stepfather, William Paul Diehl Jr.; her brother, Robert Durette; her brother-in-law, Leonard “Bo” Smoot; and her nephew, Robbie Durette.
Among Toni’s greatest accomplishments was raising two daughters with love, joy, and warmth. She was a devoted wife, a loving grandmother, a nurturing sister, and a steadfast friend. After graduating from Strasburg High School, she studied English at Radford University, where she met her husband. Following her graduation, they married on June 21, 1967, and settled in Blacksburg, VA. Toni taught high school English and Drama before choosing to become a full-time mother and homemaker upon the arrival of her children. She was an involved, caring, and positive mother, offering boundless love to those around her.
Toni had a big personality and left a lasting impact on everyone she met. She loved swimming, traveling, playing tennis, and seeking new adventures. She was a gracious and warm hostess, known for organizing wonderful gatherings and celebrations. Daring, inspirational, kind, loving, funny, and determined, Toni always spoke her mind freely and remained true to her convictions. She lived life to the fullest, despite the many challenges she faced toward the end. We will always remember her bright eyes, warm smile, and infectious laugh.
Funeral services are under the direction of Maddox Funeral Home, Front Royal, VA. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025 at 9:30 a.m., followed by a service at 10:00 a.m. A private family burial will take place in River View Cemetery in Strasburg, VA. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Lynn Care Center in Front Royal, VA, Resident Council Fund, Attention: Megan Smith.
Toni was more like a sister to me than a cousin. We grew up together and had many “adventures,” of which she was usually the ringleader. Although we shared some tears along the way, we always laughed til we either cried or wet our pants!! God certainly broke the mold when he created Toni. She was one in a million and I will miss her until we meet again to embark on new adventures. Love you always, Sister.
Toni was such a loving and lovely person, and much loved by our whole family. Her huge smile and heartfelt laugh have a place in my heart. Just talking with her made me feel
special. She was always so present and delighted in conversation with me as a child
and a teen. We were so fortunate to be not only family friends but also neighbors. I am sending thoughts of peace to Don, Shea and Shawn, and all the other family members who hold her dear.
Temple McNeer
I had the privilege of meeting Toni at Lynn Care Center. Once acquainted, it was my daily goal to see her lovely smile. As time progressed, I grew to love her as a friend. Through this friendship, I became familiar with her daughters Shawn and Shea, as well as her sister Bobbie. Our bond grew in ways that I won’t forget. I will always cherish those memories. My heart goes out to the family. And, I feel a void. She is already missed.
My condolences go out to Toni’s family and to those who had the fortune of having her as a friend.
Toni had an infectious smile that could brighten a room and a personality that could light up the universe. My only hope is that others will takeaway some of what she gave the world. I know I will.