15th July 1953 – 12th January 2009

Wife, Mother, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, Our Friend

For all who knew Rona, or maybe only met her once, she always made you laugh; she put your feelings before her own. She was the one to always make you happy no matter what was going on around her. There are so many stories from Blue Willow from our Tuesday get togethers, Sleep Overs, Midnight Sales, Week End Aways, Interstate & Local Shows, Christmas Parties and Birthday Parties. We were more like a second family.

Rona was our Business Partner, but more than that she was our friend, like our big sister. Unbelievably Rona considered herself to be the lucky one. She thought that if she ever said “why me” or “poor me” that would be like wishing her illness onto someone else and if that person was someone she loved she wouldn’t have been able to bear it.

When Rona and Paul (Rona’s Husband) were first told about her illness she would say “don’t be sad until we have to be”. Well now the time has come to be sad. As we remember the good times and smile when we can, and we’ll allow ourselves to be sad, but we’ll never ever forget the true, kind, loving, happy person Rona was.

You will be happy to know that Rona went out the way she lived her life, still smiling, eyes sparkling, making totally inappropriate jokes and more concerned for others than herself. We would both like to take this opportunity to thank all who have been there for us, for all your kind words, cards and flowers.

It’s not good bye – It’s when we meet again our friend, Rona.

Chrissie & Rhonda

Every day a treasure for us to find anew,
Every friend a pleasure to love our whole lives through,
Our family to gather round us and give comfort in our need.
And always reaping what we sewed with every loving deed.
- Rona Harrold 2007 -

The news about Rona was very sad and will be hard for you, Rhonda and your customers to deal with. I am sure you will feel Rona's presence in the shop and hope you will be able to think about the many happy times you all shared.

Karen Martin - Mrs Martins Quilt Shop

A truly gorgeous lady who will be truly missed

Trish Nelson

Memories of her always laughing and full of energy a true friend to the quilting world our thoughts are with you all.

Yelena & Leonie - Beechworth Quilters Cottage

I am in tears, and cannot believe it! I am just so sorry for you all, I just adored her, her classes were always so much fun and she was truly a wonderful quilter and friend to all who walked through the door of Blue Willow Cottage. Please know that we are both thinking of you and know that the world has lost a very special soul.

Erica and Petra

I started my first sampler quilt almost 12 months ago and Rona helped me get all the colours together. I never did get around to bringing it down to show it to you all as a finished project. I will now add a small label to it also in memory of Rona. My prayers are with you all and her family.

Lyn McGhee

I am looking at Rona's picture and my heart is sad for you all.

Betty Ann

I will always remember her happy outrageous antics.

Sincerely Wendy Phelps

I had Rona as my teacher for the Russian Wedding Ring a few years ago. What a great time we had learning from her. We have had a good chat about what we remember and what a fun loving person Rona was. She will be deeply missed but remembered always.

Glenda Rezmann.