Lois Nan Strawn

Lois Nan Antill Strawn of Washington died July 17, 2015 at Presbyterian Southmont Senior Care Facility. She was born in Washington, July 23, 1926 to the late Edward and Lula Allen Antill. She was a graduate of Washington High School. Lois was a member of the Broad Street Baptist Church in Washington. At the age of 14, along with her brother, guitarist, Eddie Antill auditioned and won a contest to host the morning program, known as “The Sunrise Jamboree”, on local radio station WJPA. Many country entertainers were among the guests on this show, until World War II, caused the cancellation of this program, due to the members of the band being called to serve their country. Lois and her brother, due to their popularity, played many venues during this time, including many parks, which, included Kennywood, along with many Fundraisers and Grand Openings. A fond memory of Lois’s was a visit from Hank Snow to their West End home to hear them perform, only to find they were not home. Instead, Lois’s father entertained Hank. She was formerly employed at the Duncan Miller Glass Factory in Washington. On January 28, 1947, she married Gene Wiley Strawn, who died August 16, 1980. Surviving are a son, Larry E. (Brenda Snyder) Strawn of Washington; step grandson, Terry (Denise) Harps step great grandchildren, Holly and TJ Harps; step great great grandchildren, Monique and Michael all of Washington; several nieces and nephews. Deceased in addition to her parents and husband are a son, Gary E. Strawn, daughter in law, Helen Jenkins Strawn; sister, Catherine Post; brother Edward Antill Jr. Friends will be received Sunday, July 19, 2015 from to 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at William G. Neal Funeral Homes, 925 Allison Ave, Washington, where services will be held Monday, July 20, 2015 at 1:30 p.m. with Pastor Jay Freudenberg officiating. Burial will follow at Washington Cemetery.