Effie Elizabeth Leatherman

Effie Elizabeth Leatherman, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 14th, 2025 at the age of 98. Effie was born February 7, 1927, in Chanute, Kansas. Effie lived a life marked by creativity, intellect and a deep commitment to her family, church and community.

Effie was a devoted wife to Clete Leatherman with whom she shared 73 years of marriage until his passing in 2018. Together they built a loving home in Reno, Nevada.

Effie is survived by her daughter, Kathy Brooks, a son, Steve Leatherman and his wife Becky. Grandchildren, Wayne Mandeville, his wife Dara, Kristin Green, her husband Charles, Dr. Matthew Leatherman, his wife Lauren, and Blake Leatherman, his wife Amanda and their son Cal Robert Leatherman, Great-grandchildren Courtney Mandeville and her daughter Lainee Mandeville, Caitlynn Mandeville and Ricky Phillips and their children Easton Wayne Phillips and Bobbie Elizabeth Phillips, and Callie Mandeville and Joe Dickinson and their children Kaulder J. Blankenbeckler and Cora Linn Blankenbeckler. She leaves behind a legacy of love for her family, each of whom carries forward her grace, strength, and sense of curiosity.

Professionally, Effie served for many years as the office manager for Comstock Insurance in Reno, Nevada, where her passion for learning led her to the University of Nevada Reno, where she shared her knowledge as an adjunct professor.

A gifted artist and published author, Effie’s creative spirit touched many.

Effie and Clete retired to Mesa, AZ where they lived for 20+ years in Sunland Springs Village Community.

Effie’s life was a testament to her resilience and compassion. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Her Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, May 22nd at 10:00am at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park, 6747 E. Broadway Rd., Mesa, AZ. In lieu of flowers please contribute to the charity of your choice or to the Harmony Community Baptist Church, P. O. Box 6315, Mesa, AZ 85216. Effie and Clete attended this church for many years and were very active.