Loving Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother; NASCAR Fan

Verna Lee Hyman, 74 of Loves Park died at 7:06 am on Monday, August 17, 2009 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family. Verna was born on September 13, 1934 in Marshall, North Carolina, daughter of Bergin and Edna (Rice) Buckner. Verna lived her life to the fullest, teaching her children to never be afraid to try new things. She was the "Queen of Blooming Where She Was Planted." Her vivacious personality and her strong independent spirit are remembered fondly by her entire family. Verna was one of few rebellious women who rode motorcycles in the late 50's and early 60's. When her children were young, she tooled around in a '68 Red Rag Top Camaro, which she restored herself. She took great pleasure in her many hobbies, including hunting for bargains and treasures at garage sales, cooking, sewing, tending to her garden, camping with her family, bird watching, and in her later years watching her favorite NASCAR driver, #88. She worked at Clinton Electronics. Verna is survived by her children; Eric (Lori) Smith, Greg (Jill) Smith, Brian Smith, Charles Nelson, Matt (Missy) Nelson, Nicole (Justin) Hyman-Johnson; siblings, Barb (Pete) Shurman, Kermit "Chub" Norton, Melda Wright, Larry Buckner, L.B. Bucker, Jerry Buckner, Janice Hunter; sister-in law, Pat Norton; grandchildren, Dan Smith, Sandra Fenton, Alissa Nelson, Aliena, Evan and Ella Johnson; great-grandchildren, Josie, Gavin, Kevin, Emerson; and step-mother, Mildred Buckner; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her infant son, Michael Smith, parents, brother, Truman and sister-in-law, Cheri.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 21, 2009 at 11 am at Northeast Christian Church, 5651 East Riverside Blvd. Rockford, officiant Rev. Wayne Hume. Visitation will begin at 9 am until the time of the service. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to the family to be designated at a later date. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information please visit gracefh.com