RAYMONA HOLLINGSWORTH

Raymona Jean (Artis) Hollingsworth was born in Kokomo, Indiana, on April 15, 1943, to Raymond H. and G. Marjorie (Malone) Artis, both of whom preceded her in death.

She attended Kokomo public schools and graduated from Kokomo High School in 1961. During her high school years, Raymona expressed her passion for nursing, actively   participating in the Future Nurses Club and volunteering as a candy striper at St. Joseph Hospital. Following graduation, she pursued her dream, training to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Indianapolis. Her career journey led her to work as Office Manager and Nurse for pediatrician John T. Young, MD, for eighteen years, where her love for caring for babies and children blossomed. She became a familiar face in the community, known affectionately as "The Shot Lady" or Dr. Young's nurse.

Raymona's dedication to serving others extended beyond her role with Dr. Young. She later became the Director of Support Services at Atterbury Job Corps Center, positively influencing the lives of numerous students. Subsequently, she ventured into home health nursing, contributing her skills to agencies such as the Visiting Nurses Association and Caregivers Home Health. Additionally, she co-founded and co-owned Lorraine Nursing Services. However, her career was interrupted in 2005 due to a severe stroke.

In August 1968, Raymona married William J. Hollingsworth, with whom she had two children, Nicole S. Hollingsworth of Indianapolis and Scott C. Hollingsworth of Washington, D.C. The couple divorced in 1978. Raymona was a devoted and loving mother, prioritizing her children above all else. She had a “quirky” personality which compelled her best friend, Phyllis South, often to say “Oh Raymona.”  The phrase “Oh Raymona, Moments” was later adopted by her children and it was through their telling stories about the moments that Raymona’s exploits became widely known.

Raymona was a Christian woman of faith who attended church her entire life. She was baptized at Wayman Chapel African Methodist Church in Kokomo where members of the extended Artis family had long been members. She and her children were members of Westlane Christian Church for many years during which she formed close and lasting relationships. She was a member of the Women of Westlane and participated in Westlane’s summer bible school program and was also frequently responsible for decorations at many of Westlane’s events.

Beyond her professional and religious pursuits, Raymona had a passion for bridge, being a member of the Bridgettes bridge club and achieving the esteemed title of Life Master Bridge Player. She was a founding member of and belonged to the Ladies of The Inner Circle social club for more than 50 years. Some of her most significant and lasting friendships grew out of the relationships with the women in this group who continue to support each other until today.

Unexpectedly, Raymona passed away on Palm Sunday morning, March 24, 2024, at St. Vincent Hospital, after residing at Hooverwood Living nursing home in Indianapolis for    approximately three years. During her time at Hooverwood, she discovered a newfound talent for painting.

Raymona is survived by her children, Nicole and Scott; her granddaughter, Ava S. Hollingsworth of Washington, D.C.; her beloved sister, June Ann Artis of Indianapolis; numerous cousins, and many friends. Raymona will be remembered for her giving nature; her ability to make and maintain strong friendships; her gregariousness (she never met a stranger); her frankness and her unique fashion sense.

Humbly Submitted…………….……............................................................................…………….The Family

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