Leona Jane McCarroll

Leona McCarroll died quietly in McCall on Friday, August 22. Born in 1931 to Frank and Jewel Breakey of Spokane, Leona was the older of two children. The pioneer heritage of her parents' families was a continuing source of identity and pride. Leona met Mark McCarroll of Payette, Idaho, while he was a bank management trainee in Spokane. A marriage of 57 years followed, during which they raised their children, Julie and Ben, in Payette. Upon Mark's retirement, at Leona's insistence, they moved closer to grandchildren in Boise. Leona and Mark relished summers in McCall, periodic travel, and gatherings of friends and family. Leona had several personas. While new acquaintances might experience her as a reserved homemaker, that initial impression would often yield to an appreciation of her distinctive flair and wit. She was an accomplished vocalist, having studied at Gonzaga and Whitworth. Leona deeply appreciated hymns and musical theater, as well as folk and holiday melodies. She was a soloist and chorus mainstay at church, sparkled in community theater lead roles (most memorably in Hello Dolly and The Sound of Music), sang in the 1976 Bicentennial State Choir, and entertained at hospitals. Leona's public service included being a state leader of the International Federation of Music Clubs, member of the Boise Opera Board, and active contributor to numerous civic organizations in Payette. One light-hearted gift to the community was a musical she wrote and directed entitled "Payette, Payette -- or How the West was Really Won." In 1992, she was recognized in a portrait of a distinguished citizen published by The Idaho Statesman. This past year Leona adjusted to Mark's passing. She recently remarked to her daughter, with hint of aplomb, that while missing him greatly she'd had enough of his lesser companion, Fox News. Leona is survived by her brother, John Breakey, and his wife Caroline. She is loved and appreciated by extended family that includes daughter-in-law Sheila McCarroll and grandchildren Connor, Megan and Kathleen; and son-in-law Greg Surabian and grandchildren Roby and Sarah. Leona's family thankfully acknowledges the kindnesses of friends and the dedication of clergy, physicians, nurses and caregivers. Services will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 11:00am, at the Payette United Methodist Church, 502 North 11th Street. Arrangements are under the direction of Shaffer-Jensen Memory Chapel, Payette Service Details. Service When: Tuesday, August 26th, 2014 Location: Funeral Home Address: