Wilma Leach

Wilma Lavoy Leach passed peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. She left behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion that will continue to live on through all who knew her. She was blessed with a long and full life and recently celebrated her 100th birthday in her beloved hometown of Gainesville, Texas.

Wilma was born on October 5, 1925, in Gainesville to Chester Reed and Ora Lee Chapman. She was preceded in death by her sister, Marion Allen of Los Alamos, New Mexico, younger brother, Mel Chapman of Nocona, TX, and daughter-in-law Shelli Grissom Leach of Denton, TX. She grew up surrounded by a close-knit family, where she learned the importance of love, faith, and staying connected—values she carried with her every day of her life.

Soon after graduating from Gainesville High School, Wilma married the love of her life, Carlos M. Leach. As a young military wife, she followed him to Cherry Point, North Carolina during his pilot training with the U.S. Marine Air Corps. After World War II they made their home in Houston, where Wilma worked at Shell Oil Company while faithfully supporting Carlos through dental school. Those early years reflected the strength, loyalty, and quiet determination that defined her life.

Wilma’s greatest joy and calling was her family. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising her four sons, creating a home filled with love, guidance, and steady faith. She is lovingly remembered by her sons: Carlos M. Leach, Jr. and wife Rosemary of Kerrville; Tim Leach and wife Debbie of Gainesville; Doug Leach of Weatherford; and Dr. Sam Leach and wife Karen of Callisburg. Her legacy continues through her 15 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense pride and joy.

Her faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. Wilma was a charter member of Temple Baptist Church in Gainesville, where she built lasting friendships and served faithfully over the years. She was also active in the Rebecca Crockett Chapter of the NSDAR, enjoyed time spent with her bridge groups, and had a special gift for sewing—often creating things for others with care and love.

Wilma will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her steady faith, and the way she made each person feel cared for and valued. Her life was a beautiful example of devotion—to her family, her faith, and her community.

Visitation will be held at Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m., Friday, March 20th, followed by a graveside service at Fairview Cemetery, beginning at 3:00 p.m.