Mildred Ellen Leatherman, 91, passed away peacefully and met her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. She was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to the late Walter and Helma Schaper. Mildred married the love of her life, Allen Leatherman, on October 17, 1953, and they shared 72 wonderful years as husband and wife.

Mildred was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy was gathering her family around the table. Known for her legendary cooking, she possessed the rare talent of turning a few pantry staples into a feast. Taught to sew by her mother at a young age, Mildred became an accomplished seamstress, dedicating countless hours to creating and mending pieces for her loved ones. She also had a deep love for gardening and a special gift for cardmaking. No occasion went unmarked, and she regularly sent her handmade creations to family and friends, spreading joy with every envelope. In their later years, Mildred and Al cherished the winter seasons they spent among friends in Fort Myers, Florida.

Deeply committed to their faith, Mildred and Al were dedicated supporters of both Lake Avenue and Grace Point Churches of the Nazarene, contributing countless hours of service over the years. Mildred lived her life as a true testament to God’s love. Her deep and abiding faith was her constant anchor, holding her fast through her final days.

Mildred is survived by her children Gregory (Dianne) Leatherman, Renee (James) Day, and Brian (Cathy) Leatherman; grandchildren, Joe (Brianna) Platter, Ayren (Josh) Keller, Bethany Day, Nathan (Chelsea) Day, Jenna (Trevor) O'Meara, Callie Day, David (Aleah) Wortsman, Mia Leatherman, Ryan (Jeannine) Leatherman, and Evan Leatherman; 12 great-grandchildren; brother Raymond (Dorothy) Schaper, sister Marilyn (Leroy) Werling, many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Allen Leatherman, and son Randall Leatherman.

A public visitation will be held at Grace Point Church of the Nazarene on Saturday, June 6, starting at noon. The memorial service will follow immediately at 2:00 p.m., with burial to take place afterward at Highland Memorial Park. Memorial contributions can be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.