Leona Ruth Grigsby passed into eternity on April 29, 2024 and is now with her Savior.  Leona was born January 26, 1939, to Carl J and Lavona Harriet (Newsom) Simpson in Centerview, Kansas.  She married Leland Darrel Grigsby on July 15, 1978 in Wichita, Kansas and the couple made their home in Harper, Kansas.

Preceding Leona in death were her parents, Carl and Lavona Simpson; husband, Darrel Grigsby; and brother, Alan Eugene Simpson.  She is survived by her sister, Judy Parker and her husband, Jerry of Indianapolis, Indiana; her nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Leona and Darrel had no children of their own, but Leona took delight in her nieces and nephews: Kelly Simpson Hale, Lori Simpson Thompson, Brad Parker, Brian Parker, and Chris Parker.

After graduating from high school, Leona graduated from Friends Academy and Bible College in Haviland, Kansas before graduating from Wichita State University with her teaching degree.  She became a teacher at Goddard, Kansas and briefly the St Louis, Missouri area before returning to Wichita and resuming her career at Goddard.  Leona taught English at Goddard Middle School and then the High School.  She was a teacher for 33 years and was proud of the fact that she taught many second-generation students.

Leona had a great love of music and was an accomplished pianist and organist.  Leona committed her life to Christ at an early age and she served Him with a strong commitment by her involvement to churches in Wichita, St. Louis, and Harper.  She was a long-time member of The Crazy Quilters Guild and belonged to the Retired Teachers Association.

Funeral Service is 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 3, 2024 at Prairie Rose Funeral Home, Harper, with Pastor Ron Pracht officiating.  Graveside Service follows at the Attica Cemetery where Leona will be laid to rest next to her beloved, Darrel.

Memorial contributions may be made to Goddard High School Library and can be sent in care of Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 613 W 14th St ~ Harper, Kansas  67058.