Leona Griess Rath, 94, of Sutton passed away April 1, 2025, at Legacy Square in Henderson.

Leona was born May 18, 1930, in Hamilton County, northeast of Stockham to Richard A. and Olanda Griess. The youngest of nine children, she received her education at District 8 country school outside of Stockham, and went on to live a life full of love, faith, and service to others.

On October 15, 1952, Leona married Robert Henry Rath. Together, they built a family filled with love and strong values. They made their home on a farm in northwest Fillmore County until they moved into Sutton in 1988. To this union, six children were born: Elaine, Marilyn, Marcella, Linda, Joan, and Stanley. Leona found joy in serving her husband, family, and loved ones. She loved preparing meals for her beloved family, hosting her family for Sunday lunch after church for several decades, as well as her grandchildren on Wednesday afternoons before catechism, ensuring that their table was always filled with warmth and love. She also worked at the Sutton Community Home, sharing her kindness with those in her care. She was an active member of the Fillmore County Extension Club. She enjoyed time spent with friends over coffee, sharing stories and laughter. She was a longtime member of the Hope Reformed Church.

Her faith in the Lord was the cornerstone of her life. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, encouraging her family to “keep going to church, pray, and read the Bible,” and to “have faith, be content, and know that God is in control of everything.”

Leona will be remembered for her kindness, hard work, servant heart, and just the right touch of feistiness. She served her family well, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Leona is survived by her six children: Elaine Robinson of Sutton, Marilyn Eason of Pender, Marcella (John) Van Kirk of Sutton, Linda (Walt) Hahn of Sutton, Joan (Timothy) Johnson of Harvard, and Stanley (Melissa) Rath of Sutton. She also leaves behind a cherished legacy of 19 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren, who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.

She is proceeded in death by her husband; her parents; her in-laws, Henry and Adolphine (Griess) Rath; five brothers: Reinhold R. Griess, Edmond R. Griess, Oscar R. Griess, Gilbert R. Griess, Simeon R. Griess; three sisters: Johanna Griess, Talitha Hofmann, Minnie Hofmann; son-in-law, Wayne Robinson; granddaughter, Jamie (Rath) Lingren; and great-grandson, Henry William Obrinsky.

A Funeral Service for Leona was held Monday, April 7, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., at the Hope Reformed Church in Sutton with Pastor Scott Henry presiding.

Private Family Graveside Services took place at the Sutton Cemetery in Sutton.

Memorials are to be directed to the Sutton Christian School.

Sutton Memorial Chapel was in charge of funeral arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.suttonmemorial. com.