Naomi Eppard Diehl of Harrisonburg, Va., completed her journey to Heaven, leaving her earthly home Saturday, March 22, 2014 at the age of 88 years old.

Naomi was the first born child and Christmas gift to her late parents, Alvin John Eppard and Lottie Dean Eppard. Naomi was born, Dec. 26, 1925.

Naomi completed her elementary education at Fox Mountain School and graduated from Elkton High School, Class of 1944. Naomi entered nurse’s training, but her husband, Lynwood C. Diehl, who preceded her in death, won her heart and she nursed calves on the farm instead as well as being a nurse to her husband.

Surviving are one brother, Curtis D. Eppard of Harrisonburg, and one sister, Eula R. Eppard of Harrisonburg. Naomi is also survived by cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, caregivers, and her fur therapy, PeaNut (canine) Eppard.

Pastor Ray Eppard conducted a “Victory Memorial Service” at the Kyger Funeral Home Chapel, in Harrisonburg, Wednesday, March 26, 2014 at 11 a.m.

The family recommends that in lieu of flowers, a memorial gift be given to Hospice. Should you be led to do so, mail you gift to: Sentara Health Foundation, 3015 Poplar Hall Drive, Suite 308, Norfolk, Va. 23502-3819. Please designate your gift for: “Sentara Hospice of Harrisonburg, Va. in memory of Naomi Eppard Diehl.”

A big “Thank You” goes out to the hospice team.

P.S. Naomi’s heart was always in nursing, even though she did not graduate. Student nurses were truly first class angels of mercy.”

A Nurse’s Prayer

When I falter, give me courage.

When I tire, renew my strength.

When I weaken because I’m human,

Inspire me on to greater length,

If doctors and patients become demanding,

And days are too short for all my duty,

Help me remember I chose to serve,

To do so with grace, and spiritual beauty.

In humility Lord, I labor long hours,

And though I sometimes may fret;

My mission is mercy, abide with me,

That I may never forget.