James Douglas Leid

James “Jim” Douglas Leid, a lifelong resident of Waitsburg, Washington, passed away on May 20, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born August 10, 1951, to Roy Wesley Leid, Sr. and Patricia Anne Hirsch Leid, Jim was raised in Waitsburg and graduated from Waitsburg High School in 1969. He went on to attend the University of Montana, where he played football as a defensive tackle for his beloved Griz. He graduated from U of M in 1974 with a degree in education.

After college, Jim returned home to work the family’s dryland wheat farm. Later, he transitioned into education, teaching high school math in Waitsburg for many years until his retirement in 2019. He was known for his no-nonsense approach, sharp mind, and steady presence in the classroom and the community.

Jim married Olivia Denise Cantrell on June 10, 1972. Together, they raised two children, Jocelyn Leid Mohney (Luke) and Ryan Leid. Jim was a proud grandfather to Caitlin, Logan, Paige, and Griffin Mohney.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Roy Wesley Leid, Jr (Wes). He is survived by his wife, Olivia; his children and grandchildren; and his siblings, Michael White, Maggie Gartner, and Mark Leid.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Waitsburg Presbyterian Church, 504 Main St, Waitsburg, WA.

Donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Blue Mountain Community Scholarship Fund through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.