Jamie Ellen Damon

Jamie Ellen Damon, born June 27, 1951, in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, passed away peacefully in Charlottesville, Virginia on January 2, 2025. She was the youngest of four children born to William "Bill" E. Damon Sr. and Louise Damon (Snodgrass). Jamie spent her early years in Big Stone Gap before her family relocated to Gastonia, North Carolina. It was there that she met and married Ridgeway "Sandy" Lynch Jr. The couple lived in Japan from 1971 to 1973 while Sandy was stationed with the U.S. Navy. Jamie embraced her time in Japan, exploring the country on a motorcycle and developing a lifelong appreciation for its art and culture. She later returned to Japan with friends on an art and culture tour, fulfilling a cherished dream. After returning to the U.S., Jamie and Sandy settled at Kanuga Conference Center in Hendersonville, North Carolina, where they welcomed their two children, Benjamin Damon Lynch (1975-1998) and Sara Grace Lynch (Fritz) (born 1977). During this time, Jamie broke barriers as the first woman admitted to the civil engineering program at AB Tech in Asheville, NC. Despite challenges, she earned her associate degree and began working as a land surveyor. Following her divorce in 1982, she moved to Asheville and embarked on a 25-year career in ship design, contributing to Navy vessels including submarines and aircraft carriers. Jamie's life was marked by resilience and adventure. She was a whitewater raft guide on the French Broad River, an avid reader, quilter, gardener, and a soccer enthusiast. She formed an enduring bond with Sandy "Julius" Harrill, who became her devoted caregiver in her later years. Despite facing significant challenges-including surviving brain cancer and enduring the loss of her son Ben-Jamie's sharp wit and humor remained constant. She retired in Charlottesville to be near her daughter, Sara. Jamie is survived by Sara and Keith Fritz and their daughters Hannah and Emma. Jamie's indomitable spirit and sense of humor will be deeply missed by those who knew her. May her memory bring comfort and inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to share in her journey. An online guestbook is available at www.compassionatecremationva.com Compassionate Cremation Services of Ruckersville, VA is handling the arrangements.

Jamie Ellen Damon

June 27, 1951 - January 2, 2025