Letha Illene Spry, age 90, of Joplin, passed away on Saturday, November 5, 2022 at a local nursing facility.

Letha was born May 3, 1932 in Alba, Missouri, daughter of the late Chester Lawrence and Elma (Myers) Lawrence.  She graduated from Alba High School before getting married to Merle W. Spry on December 22, 1950 in New Mexico.  She followed her husband’s military career while being a loving mother to three children.  The family settled in the Joplin area, and she was a member of the Blendville Christian Church.

In addition to her parents, Letha was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 60 years, Merle W. Spry; and a son, Michael Spry, a grandson, Gary Spry, a great-grandson, Garrett Spry, sister, Frances Williams, and three brothers, James Lawrence, Richard Lawrence, and Milton Lawrence.

Survivors include her son, Anthony B. Spry and wife Janet of Joplin; daughter, Cheryl L. Jones and husband Clyde of Neosho, Missouri; daughter-in-law, Lien Spry of Carterville, Missouri, grandchildren, Jon, Steve, Tim and wife Shawna, Josh, Donald, Douglas and wife Candace, and Brian Spry;  several great-grandchildren.

Inurnment of her ashes will be at a later date at the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.