Leann Ladner

Leann Ladner departed this life into God's presence on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at the age of 63. She was a dedicated teacher, volunteer firefighter, loving mother, and cherished grandmother. She touched countless lives through her kindness, generosity, and unwavering compassion. Leann had a remarkable ability to open her heart and home to others, welcoming children who were not her own and loving them as if they were.

She found joy in caring for those around her, especially through her love of cooking and baking homemade bread, which brought comfort and warmth to family and friends. In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting, reading, and spending time with loved ones. Leann was also known for her competitive spirit, whether she was playing Canasta with family and friends or challenging others in video games.

Her legacy is one of love, service, and selflessness. She will be remembered for her caring nature, generous heart, and the countless lives she enriched through her dedication to family, community, and those in need. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. May her memory be a blessing to all whose lives she touched.

She is preceded in death by husband, Matthew Ladner who she married January 11, 1988; parents, Walter and Margaret Smith and one brother, Roy Smith.

Left to forever cherish Leann's memory, her four children, Dusty Keating (Kelly), Matthew Wade Ladner (Chris Diestelhorst), Darien Ladner (Kalen) and Victoria Watts; two brothers, Ed Smith and Greg Smith (Jeannie); eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Leann's visitation Thursday, June 25, 2026 at White Funeral Home, 315 Hwy 11 South, Poplarville, Mississippi from 9:00 am until 11:00 am. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 am. Burial to follow in Hester Cemetery, Perkinston, Mississippi with Darien Ladner, Dustin Keating, Wade Ladner, Michael Keating, Landon Wendling and Chris Diestelhorst serving as pallbearers.