Leah Ripper was born in San Antonio, Texas, on March 6, 1948, to Edwin Ripper and Elizabeth Evans. She attended school in San Antonio and graduated from Edison High School before earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin. She went on to pursue graduate studies at Rice University.
Leah dedicated 30 years of her career to the Food and Drug Administration, where she served as an Associate Director of Regulatory Affairs. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she generously volunteered at the JF Kennedy Center and the Virginia Thrift Shop.
Leah is preceded in death by her father, Edwin Ripper; her mother, Elizabeth Ripper; and Dale Ripper.
She is survived by her brother, Philip Howard Ripper, and his spouse, Suzette Ripper; her nephew, Phillip C. Ripper, and his spouse, Marcie Trevino Ripper, and their children, Lincoln and Austen; her niece, Stacy Czajka, and her children, Haley, Landon, and Riley; and her niece, Lori Ripper, and her partner, Jennifer Reed. She is also survived by her first cousin, Bob Ripper, and his wife, Brenda Ripper.
The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to Dr. On the Go Nurse Practitioners Larry and David, Home Watch Hospice nurses Joanne and Lisa, hospice nursing aides Tanya and Rosa, the Affinity Senior Care team (Arnold, Jackie, Omi, Tonnette, and Abygail), and Sonterra Franklin Park Retirement Home for their compassionate care and support during Leah’s final days.
The family also extends heartfelt thanks to their friends and loved ones for their love, prayers, kindness, and support during this difficult time. Your comforting words, thoughtful gestures, and presence have meant more than words can express.
