Funeral services for Leta Guinn was held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Taylor Anderson officiating. A private family burial followed in the Alva Municipal Cemetery under the direction of Marshall Funeral Home.
Leta Faye, daughter of Rufus Cecil and Flossie Pearle (Nippert) Hamilton was born August 25, 1936, in her grandmother’s home in Mangum, Oklahoma and passed away in her Alva, Oklahoma home, surrounded by family and friends August 29, 2024, at the age of 88 years and 4 days.
Leta spent her childhood in Pampa, Texas, as the beloved only child of Rufus and Flossie. Her life took a memorable turn when Gene, who frequently visited the soda fountain where Leta worked, was captivated by her charm and grace. After a brief courtship, they were united in marriage on November 19, 1953. Leta and Gene shared over 70 wonderful years of marriage, filled with love, partnership, and countless memories.
Soon after their marriage, Gene and Leta moved to Newcastle, Wyoming, and while Gene worked on a drilling rig, Leta completed her high school education, graduating in 1955. While Gene served in the Korean War, Leta moved back to Pampa and worked in a jewelry store where she learned accounting and secretarial skills.
The couple welcomed their son, Tony Gene in December of 1959 and the young family eventually settled in Alva, Oklahoma in 1960 where Gene worked with Cities Service Company. Leta’s professional career was marked by a notable tenure as secretary to the president of Northwestern Oklahoma State University, followed by 20 years as the school secretary in Carmen and then Burlington, Oklahoma.
After Leta retired, she enjoyed traveling, reading, playing golf and bridge. She transformed her home with her unique decorating style, filling it with various antiques and collectibles, including her treasured angels and crystalpickle castor jars. Leta was an active member of the Alva United Methodist Church and member of the Priscilla Circle and United Women in Faith organization. In addition, she volunteered with the Oklahoma Home & Community Education, and 20th Century Club, as well as other clubs and organizations in the community.
Leta was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. Nothing brought more joy to Leta’s life than attending the school and sporting activities of her three grandsons. Leta recently found delight in playing with her two great-granddaughters, Charlotte (3) and Madeline (9 mos.).
Leta is survived by her husband, Gene Allen Guinn, of Alva; her son, Tony Gene Guinn and wife, Kerry, of Edmond; her grandchildren, Clay Thomas Guinn and wife, Emily, of Oklahoma City, Trent Shelby Guinn and wife, Elaine, of Oklahoma City, and Will Hudson Guinn of Edmond. Also surviving are two great-granddaughters, Charlotte Louise Guinn and Madeline Grace Guinn; relatives and friends. Leta was preceded in death by her parents.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made through the funeral home to the First United Methodist Church of Alva.
Remembrances may be shared with the family at www.marshallfuneralhomes.com.
Leta will be remembered fondly for her warmth, creativity, and the love she shared with her family and friends.
