Loretta Marie Ames

Loretta Marie Ames (née Sturgess), aged 75, of Humble, Texas, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her daughters, on May 30, 2024.

Sharing a birthday with her mother, Loretta was born on February 11, 1949, to Murl and Elsie Sturgess in Tipton, Oklahoma. Attending Tipton High School, she was involved in Band (playing the drums), Basketball, and various clubs. After graduation she studied at Cameron College in Lawton, OK, where she met her husband, Richard.

Loretta had many skills and worked hard throughout her diverse professional life. She helped her parents on their farm, worked as a waitress in college, and upon moving their family to Houston in 1975 she began the first of several entrepreneurial ventures, baking and decorating cakes. She was also a licensed massage therapist and 15 years ago started a small commercial cleaning business which the family will continue to operate. Her work ethic and spirit of service were evident in every task she undertook.

Loretta's life was a living example of Christian faith, service and strength. She was a cherished member of the Lake Houston Church of Christ, where she engaged in numerous church activities and outreach programs; cooking for the monthly Men's breakfast and at summer camps, assisting with World Bible Study materials, supporting food pantry and clothing drives, teaching Sunday school, and coordinating Vacation Bible School and various workshops for the Men & Women of the church, just to name a few. One of her favorite things to do at church on Sunday mornings was to greet visitors and help them feel welcome. We wouldn't be a bit surprised if she's posted up at the pearly gates greeting everyone upon their arrival. Known for her infectious smile, joyous laughter and the warmth of her embrace, Loretta's presence was a comfort to many. Even throughout her own struggles, Loretta's dedication to God, family and community was unwavering.

She and Richard loved taking their daughters on long road-trips across the US, creating many happy memories for the family; from camping in Yellowstone where a moose walked by their picnic table, to that one summer trip where the air conditioner went out in the car while driving thru Death Valley, there was the time Loretta almost left Lana & Susan in the Petrified Forest because they were hangry and wouldn't stop arguing (LOL), the ski trip where they witnessed Richards ski's flying through the air when he crashed at the bottom of the slope (he didn't get hurt), and the memorable experience of snorkeling and swimming on black sand beaches in Hawaii (not a road trip, hehe). Together Richard & Loretta visited all 50 states, travelled across Europe and cruised to Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, and throughout the Caribbean and Mediterranean Sea. Loretta also enjoyed gardening, creating her own sanctuary, where she grew many plants and flowers, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.

Loretta is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Richard Ames, who lovingly referred to her as "My Love" and "Beautiful". Her legacy will be carried on by their daughters, Lana McCasland and husband Chris, and Susan Perry and husband Jonathan, along with her grandsons who she was very proud of, Sean Castleman and Anthony Perry. She is also survived by her sister Beverly Meeks and husband Jim, and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins, who will also hold her memory dear.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Murl and Elsie Sturgess, her sister Merlene Wilkerson Love, and her brother Darrell Sturgess.

A service to celebrate Loretta's life will be held at Lake Houston Church of Christ on June 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM. A fellowship will follow. Fellowships were one of the things Loretta enjoyed most and what better way to continue the celebration than by sharing a meal and memories. We welcome and encourage all to attend.

To honor Loretta's legacy, instead of flowers, she requested donations to the charities below that were meaningful to her. Every contribution counts, together small ripples create big waves.
• Southeast India Ministries, www.seims.org
Loretta's great niece and her husband are involved in the work SEIMS is doing to support impoverished church of Christ congregations and their communities in India.
• Tipton Children's Home, www.tiptonchildrenshome.com
Located in Loretta's childhood hometown, Richard & Loretta took the opportunity to host children in their home for summer breaks.
• Lake Houston Church of Christ, www.lakehoustoncoc.org
Richard & Loretta, founding members of the congregation, were highly involved in fellowships over the years. Note that your donation is for the continued support of fellowships.

Loretta will be remembered for her vibrant personality, infectious laughter, and loving spirit. Her life was a living example of the Biblical teaching, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Her memory will be treasured in the hearts of all who knew her, and her spirit will continue to inspire acts of love and service in her memory.