Obituary of Leota Fern Morris

Leota Fern Morris was born February 13, 1931 in Berryville, Arkansas. She came into the world as the second daughter of Fay and Veeta Willhite. In September of 1933, when Leota was 2 years old, the family moved to Murtaugh, Idaho where she spent the next 31 years. While a young girl in Murtaugh, she developed a love of sports both on the ball field and in the gymnasium. Her mother inspired a love of working in her yard, gardening, and planting flowers. All her life, Leota kept a beautiful home and immaculate yard. In 1950, she married Mike Stastny. They farmed and lived down the road from her parents. To this marriage in 1956 was born their daughter Julie. In 1964 Mike and Leota divorced and she moved to Twin Falls where she started working at Tempo Department Store. Leota met Dick Morris and they married in 1966, living happily until Dick's passing in 1998. Together they enjoyed camping and being outdoors. Dick also had a passion for sports, and they spent many hours watching the various sporting events of their grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She loved and aspired to spend time with her family. "Lode'" as she was lovingly called by her family, was given the name by her first nephew Don. Throughout her life, Leota had a successful career. After leaving Tempo she started at the Idaho Department Store where she worked with her husband Dick, then later worked at Western Farm Service. It was from Western Farm Service she retired in 1985. During her retirement, Leota's talents truly shined. She was a gifted artist and loved to paint. Her family benefited greatly from her painting. All our homes have "Lode" artwork proudly on display. She was generous with not only her talents, but all things in life. Her door was always open for a visit. Leota had many friends and loved to be social. Well into her 80's she kept active, whether it was with her painting club or walking group at the mall, she enjoyed activities and being with her friends. She was a member of the Methodist church and attended with the Shoshone Street congregation. Last year Leota's health began to decline and she passed away on January 24, 2017. She is preceded in death, and reunited with, her husband Dick Morris, her father Fay Willhite, mother Veeta Willhite, sister Bonnie Turner, and great nephew Jesse Perkins. She is survived by her daughter Julie Lierman of Jerome, ID, grandsons Ryan Lierman of Boise, ID and Jason Lierman of Filer, ID, along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. A funeral service for Leota will be held at 10:30 Monday, January 30th, 2017 at Rosenau Funeral Home. The family asks that you consider making a donation to the American Heart Association. Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM, Monday, January 30 at Rosenau Funeral Home . A viewing for Leota will be from 4-6 PM, Sunday January 29 at Rosenau Funeral Home.