Letha M. Herring Rise

Letha M. Herring Rise, 97, of Topeka, passed away on Friday, December 17, 2010 at her home. She was born October 12, 1913 in Homewood, KS, the daughter of Henry E. and Kate M. Wemmer Herring. She resided in Warner Robins, GA for 45 years before returning to Topeka in 1995. She was employed by Warner Robins Air Force Base as a civilian employee for 18 years before retiring on August 25, 1975. She and her son, Melvin also owned and operated L&M Crafts in Warner Robins.

Letha married Carl C. Rise. They later divorced. Survivors include her children, Lola Jean Strozier of Clearwater, FL, Dorothy M. (John P.) Holt of Topeka, nine grandchildren; Linda McInerney, Susan Strozier, Eric Strozier, Leon Strozier, Carl Frederick Strozier, Cindy Holt, Debbie Moore, Michael Holt and Jon D. Holt, twenty-one great-grandchildren, ten great-great-grandchildren, her sister, Maryetta (Richard) Teaford of Valley Falls and her sister-in-law, Evelyn Herring of Ozawkie. Letha was preceded in death by two brothers, Floyd Herring, Eugene Herring and two sisters; Opal New and Bonnidell Senn. It was Letha's request to be able to return to her home prior to her passing. She was able to accomplish this with the special care given to her by her great-granddaughter, Trish Johnson.

As per Letha's request, cremation has taken place. Graveside inurnment services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday in Ozawkie Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Grace Hospice, 3715 SW 29th St., Ste. 100, Topeka, KS 66614, Plaza West Rehab, 1570 SW Westport Dr., Topeka, KS 66604 or to Meals On Wheels, 5724 SW Huntoon St., Topeka, KS 66604. Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence Ave. is in charge of arrangements.