She was born on June 7, 1937, in Joplin, Missouri, to Walter and Georgia Perry. Letha lived a life defined by service, generosity, and deep community involvement. Among her many accomplishments, she lovingly fostered 144 children, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. She was an active member of her community, serving as President and Treasurer of the Foster Parent Association and coaching T-Ball for her team, the Colts. A woman of many talents and interests, Letha was a fiddle player and square dancer, helped maintain church cleanings, worked in the coat closet, and served faithfully in the church nursery. She was a member of the Sunshine’s at her church then the Red Hat Society in Fort Worth. Her caring spirit extended further through her work quilting and crocheting baby hats for hospitals. Letha found joy in simple pleasures and hobbies, including playing cards, quilting, and crocheting. She cherished time spent with family and friends and built a legacy of love that will endure for generations.
She is survived by her children: Lonnie Ardell Meador and wife Melva; Edward Kenneth Braaten and wife Susanne; Kenneth Douglas Purkey Jr. and wife Kenja; Jonathan Thomas Clark and wife Cassandra Hernandez; Cindy Lee Clark and husband Richard; Wynne Scott Harwell; Christina Lee and husband Jeremy Estrada; Teri Jo Langwell and husband Jerry; ands Kimber Lynn McKinnon and husband Daniel. She is also survived by 32 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, 6 great-great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and many foster children whose lives she touched.
Letha was preceded in death by her parents, Georgia and Walter Perry; her sister, Coleen “Dodo” Defenbaugh; her brother, Water “Billy” Perry; her sister, Leota “Babe”Braaten; her beloved husband, Harlen Henry “Pete” Clark; her daughter, Sharon Lee Fruch; her sons, Richard Harlen Clark and David Bryan Braaten; and adopted parents, Lee and Jo Witten.
Letha’s life was a testament to compassion, dedication, and unwavering love for others. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In Lieu of flowers please donate to Golden Spread Foster Care Assoc.
